On this shortest day and longest night, may you reflect on both the darkness and the light and celebrate the expression of each within you.
For there are great gifts hidden in the dark, and when you shine your unique light upon them, they yawn and stretch, as they awaken to their rightful expression. No one who understands the light, fears the darkness; for we trust in the fullness that lies ahead.
The word solstice comes from the Latin words for “sun” and “to stand still.” In the northern hemisphere, at the Winter Solstice, the sun is directly overhead, seemingly standing still with the fewest hours of sunlight. This year is even more magical due to the conjunction of Jupiter and Saturn (not seen since 1226). The dance of these two planets looks like one star – referred to as the “Star of Bethlehem” because of it’s stunning appearance. Best seen right after sunset.
So look up … and then look inward!
This is a powerful time to pause and reflect, and bring ourselves into alignment with our greatest intentions. Set a sacred space (in a meaningful way) by taking to your meditation cushion or sitting in a cozy chair. Have a notebook or a journal handy as you reflect on 2020 – the light and the dark, looking at the value of each. We give thanks for the gifts of the darkness because it is within that darkness that many things are reflected and able to be seen, like stars that only become visible against the darkness of the night’s sky. And we know that no matter how dark our darkest nights, there is always the eternal promise of the light ….
So, light a simple white candle as you focus on its flame, letting go of what no longer serves you and contemplating what you welcome in anew. Even in the hustle and bustle of this busy season, remember to take this special time for you; with the boost of the shifting season your intentions will take wings! As you replenish yourself, you can bring the very best gift of you to share with those you love.
A Winter Solstice Blessing:
I spin a fine thread of hope for what is yet to be,
as I encircle a web of quiet peace
and solitude around me.
The call of the North beckons seductively to go within,
as the energy of change
speaks to me in the cold night’s winds.
I embrace this time of deepening
within my sacred, protected cocoon;
For I will emerge stronger,
wiser,
and renewed.
Winter Solstice,
wisdom is with you this blessed night…
as I find comfort in my path illumined
by your darkened moonlight.
Donna DeNomme ©
Winter 2006
We give thanks for the light returning in greater and greater presence, as we move from Winter Solstice to Spring Equinox. And we rejoice in the hopeful light, which always returns to us – to illuminate our heart and soul. In this light, we sing and dance our wildest dreams, and know that in the coming of the new year, all things are possible.
May you and yours be blessed this Winter Solstice.
love and blessings,
Donna
there is a 30 second centering pause at the beginning of the video, as well as a moment of darkness mid-way through. Please enjoy these moments to ground and center yourselves.
Award-winning, internationally published Author Donna DeNomme for this free event! Voted Colorado’s “Spiritual Health Guru” by 5280 Magazine, Donna is the author of Turtle Wisdom: Coming Home to Yourself, Turtle Wisdom Personal Illumination Cards, Turtle Wisdom Playbook: A Motivational Coloring Adventure, Ophelia’s Oracle, 8 Keys to Wholeness: Tools for Hope-Filled Healing, and As You Feel, So You Heal: A Write of Passage.