Solstice

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On the winter solstice I think about its meaning for our northern climate when the sun rarely companions us. The brooding darkness naturally directs us inward, not a bad thing. This darkest time of the year also begins the ascent to ever more sunshine. It's lovely to anticipate that.

Christmas descends from pagan traditions that celebrated the rebirth of the sun on this day. In the third century, Christian leaders borrowed from them the idea of honoring the birth of the sun with a feast. What evolved was Christmas. Calendar adjustments threw its date off kilter.

Christians call this the Paschal Mystery—death giving birth to new life. May new life grow in peace initiatives in our country and around the world.
Blessed Solstice and Christmas and New Year to all.

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