This past week, daylight diminished by minutes each day. Storms blew in (we even had a wee bit of snow) and out again. I found a great deal of comfort in the darkness, and in the glimmer of candles and twinkle lights.
On St. Lucia’s Eve, we decked the halls with boughs of cedar and Doug fir, to the scent of scones and gingerbread in the oven. Visited by ghosts and sweet memories of of Lucia Parties Past. And Guadalupe’s candle still burns.Craig embodied the Guardian of Fire, and lit the hearth for us and a couple of friends who dropped by to warm the night.On Sunday night, we lit the third candle, the candle of Water and the West. Blessed be the waters of mercy and compassion. Blessed be our beloved Salish Sea. Blessed be our hearts.A day without rain means a long walk by the bay, musing on the meaning of coming home to oneself.Deck the halls with wild rose hips …Then there was a fun, sparkly evening at the island café, raising money for a family at Lydia Place (transitional housing) in town. The bacon-wrapped chestnuts were my favorite, followed closely by the chai truffles.
This weekend will be full of quiet time and gathering time, time alone and time with friends. Blessed Solstice to all!
Love and peace to you in the shortest days and the longest nights.