Wednesday, December 21, 2011

HONORING THE POWER OF DARKNESS

The winter solstice is not just the shortest day or the longest night of the year.  No, it's more than that.  It's a time of magic where the power of darkness is honored.  Many people fear the dark, seeking out the light so that they may see.  But the dark provides an opportunity for us to trust that which we cannot see with our own eyes. And, this time of year when there is more darkness than light in the northern hemisphere, many tuck themselves into their homes, paying attention to those things they've put aside.  In the summer months, many of the world's peoples must work the fields, till the soil and harvest the crops,taking advantage of the sun's light.  But in the winter, when the sky is dark more than light, we can be still and quiet, listening to Earth's hum as we wait for spring. This is how it was in ancient times before electricity found its way around the world, lighting our homes 24-hours-a-day.  And, in many cultures it is still this way for those who live close to the land. It is a time of renewal, awakening and peace.
All around the world, this time of year holds special meanings to many cultures. Worldwide, interpretation of this event has varied from culture to culture, but most have held a recognition of rebirth, honoring festivals and other celebrations. Solstice rites are one of our oldest celebrations, dating back to the dawn of civilization more than 25,000 years ago.  For ancient peoples, the winter solstice was an awesome, mysterious and powerful phenomenon.
For your enjoyment, I've inserted links to various websites devoted to these rituals, explaining how some of the world's ancient cultures celebrated this time of rebirth. Druid FestivalsTwelfth Night Ritual, Celebration of Yule, and The Rebirth of the Golden Solstice Sun.  Follow this link to learn of six winter solstice holidays: Winter Holidays.
I now I would like to share with you a blog post that I found very enlightening as to the beginning observances and rituals of the winter solstice.Winter Solstice Full Moon. 

Enjoy this incredible, powerful and magical time of year with the company of friends, family and by honoring your ancestors.
Namaste,
Paula

















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