"December is the month of light. It is full of the beauty of the love we can bring into our life."
In case you needed reminding, Christmas is coming (the goose is getting fat)! In addition, Hanukkah arrives this weekend, we mark Winter Solstice on December 21, and Kwanzaa begins December 26. Hence, the Explore Warren team is reflecting on the ways in which we are all connected.
The winter solstice marks the shortest day of the year and the longest night for the official beginning of the winter season. Each day going forward, the days will slowly grow longer. Many cultures, religions and spiritual traditions have honored the winter solstice. Often, this time of great darkness has encouraged humanity to gather together and celebrate the rebirth and return to the light. This is found in many ancient religions, and seen in festivals and holidays such as Christmas. Feasts focusing upon gratitude and the offering of gifts have been celebrated for thousands of years. In spirituality, this celebration of the moon also symbolizes renewed energy and self-reflection.
Wanderings will be on hiatus next week, because, frankly, with Christmas Eve and Christmas Day falling on a weekend this year, there are precious few events on our calendar that week. We hope you will all be safe and warm, celebrating this mashup of traditions with loved ones in your own special way.
We take this opportunity to wish you all the joys of the winter holiday season, however you choose to celebrate. We are grateful for all of our followers and partners. Happy Wanderings!