The days get short and cold.
The nights get long and colder.
The earth slows down to her winter nap, resting in repose.
The sun still on its course is just out of reach for our earth’s warmth.
Surface water stops flowing and all water freezes within the belly of the mother.
What was green, turns brown and what was growing, takes a rest.
Our animal siblings go into a deep and prolonged sleep.
Those that don’t sleep lie in wait for signs of life, not thinking, not fearful and not wondering, just waiting.
We, the human tribe, watch; some with worry, some with fear, all with the question: did I prepare for mother’s nap.
With great courage we move slowly, mindfully, living with a certain amount of hope.
As the dark secures its role and the cold settles in for the winter,
we are called to deepen our faith and courage.
We are called to remember that our mother will not forsake us,
will not simply leave us.
So we, too, go into our cave, settle into a nap of sorts, take inventory of our blessings and faithfully step one day at a time through the long winter always knowing that she, he, it will once again make sure that:
The days will get longer and warm.
The night will get shorter and become more inviting.
The earth will once again wake up in full celebration
of the life that did lay dormant in her bosom and her veins
waiting the moment of return.
Let us cultivate the faith necessary to navigate the waters of change.
Let us find the strength needed to prepare and protect ourselves mindfully.
Let us remember that our mother has never forsaken us.
And let us live in gratitude for her love, life and generosity.
Happy Solstice.
