Winter Solstice

It's cold here this morning, as it seems to be across most of the country. (Sorry global friends, I don't know the weather outside of US.) The forecast for tonight suggests that I will be shoveling again - six to eight inches if the weather people are correct. Wind chill of 20 below expected on Monday. Brrrr!

Both my parents came from North Dakota. Mom lived on a farm and used to tell stories of tunnelling through the snow to the barn to take care of the animals. Unfortunately, it seems this extreme-weather-hardiness is not genetic; I wimp out around 35 degrees.

I think about the effect winter has on me. I certainly don't like the darkness it brings. I am always relieved at the winter solstice (December 21 or 22) because it means the days, minute-by-minute, start becoming longer. A little bit of hope. Something outside of me over which I have no control. Which happens despite political and social conflicts, despite abuse and wars. The sun comes up. The seasons change. Life does go on, and I can always find beauty and inspiration in nature. Even in the darkest dark, it is there. This morning, I am looking at silhouettes of dark trees against the morning light, frosted by the recent snow.

I ran across this poem/prayer yesterday and want to share it. It's something I received in IOP last year. I'm not a God or religious type person. I might even be an atheist on some days. Still, I find inspiration in these words which are attributed to St. Teresa of Avila:

Today may there be peace within.

May you trust that you are exactly where you are meant to be.

May you not forget the infinite possibilities that are born of faith in yourself and others.

May you use the gifts that you have received and pass on the love that has been given to you.

May you be content with yourself just the way you are.

Let this knowledge settle into your bones, and allow your soul the freedom to sing, dance, praise and love.

It is there for each and every one of us.

Peace -