Keeping Hold of the Light

Winter Solstice

The elements are harsh at this time of year, stripping away layers that are delicate or untethered. But there’s also a fragility to winter. Everything is exposed: nature in its raw form, with branches blown bare and skeletal stems poking out of muddy hedgerows. Winter brings with it a mantle of anonymity, covering everything with a dim glow, no brighter than lamplight. I find comfort in it, a welcome step away from the glare and velocity of Summer—a season I tolerate only for the ability to grow food and flowers.

The pace at this time of year reminds me a bit of the middle of summer, with its high energy and relentless pressure to do things and go somewhere. It makes me want to find a burrow and tuck myself away for the festive season. I take any chance I can get to gather a few minutes to myself, away from the hubbub and find my way to some trees. Although even standing in the garden watching the birds at the feeder brings mental comfort.

Despite the harsh conditions, there is also beauty to be found in winter. The contours of the land draw the eye across undulating lines and patterns that are usually hidden under greenery. Tessellating fields create a patchwork quilt effect of rich browns and raw umbers. Textures become more visible. Dried seed heads in a state of disintegration look like they’ve been etched into the landscape.

In my mind I bottle and archive these too-short moments outside, as a way of getting through this time of year when it feels like the volume is up at level 10 wherever you go. These short moments are part of the reason why I enjoy marking the change of the seasons. It’s a regular means of connection to nature, even without hours to spend immersed in it. Sometimes I’m alone, often I’m with a circle, but rarely do I join in with something bigger. This year is different and I have felt the need to be part of something communal. And so this morning, with hundreds of others, I welcomed the winter solstice and the return of the light at Stonehenge.

For those who are also feeling sub-festive for whatever reason, you are not alone. Keep hold of the light no matter how dark it gets. Pass on the light no matter how small it is.

Solstice blessings and very best wishes however you celebrate at this time of year.

Thank you for reading.

Until next time,

Jo.

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