Winter Solstice 2021: Turning Toward the Light

Winter solstice arrives in the Northern Hemisphere December 21, 7:59 AM PST.  There is a frisson of excitement  when we know we are once again turning toward the light, even though we are entering the winter season and dark months ahead.  This is the magical both/and paradox of the solstice —knowing the light within the darkness.

Winter provides the opportunity for rest, reflection, and for germinating “seeds” we hope will sprout come spring.  And always, it heralds the potential for renewal and restoration of what has become depleted in us over the past seasons.  

As I reflect on the state of the world and my state within it, I am struck by how often I feel the heavy weight of chaos and strife that seems to pervade this time and space.  And yet, focusing on that chaos and strife can act like a black hole — absorbing energy and attention to the exclusion of what else exists, of what else may be possible.  A recurring theme for me is how to witness what is, while retaining a broader view AND my own sense of humanity,  compassion, and engagement. 

As the cosmos would have it, no matter where we reside on our planet, on the solstice the moon will be giving us an assist for reflection and for feeling more deeply.

She will reside in a regal position in the sky, alone — the other planets on the far side of Earth.  Highlighted in this position, her light will be luminous and rich.  Since she will be in Cancer, this feminine, receptive celestial body will enhance our connection to our emotions.  And it is the realm of feeling that seeds our awakening, our yearning for the dream we wish to bring into reality – the desired future that motivates us to act with meaning and purpose.

As we move toward the light on solstice our beautiful moon reflects back to us our own light.  What is it we wish to illuminate in our lives?  What is the dream in our hearts?  What is it that we wish to shine outward from the living, breathing vessel in which we walk this journey of life?