The Christmas tree stayed upright overnight in its jury-rigged, slightly oversized, stand. A little while ago, a single string of lightweight lights was draped around its branches. Who knows, we may even end up with presents under a decorated tree and stuffed stockings on Christmas morn. We live in times when we can take nothing for granted, although I’m not even sure about that!
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| seasonal aspiration
Photo by J. Harrington
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This morning we started listening to Folk Alley’s Holiday Stream. It was/is an interesting experience, although many of the song/artist combinations stretch my idea of traditional, the traditions I’m familiar with are far from the only ones. Never before had I encountered the combination of Alison Krauss and Yo-Yo Ma performing The Wexford Carol. One day soon, when things quiet down a bit, I’ll listen to our recording of Dylan Thomas’ A Child’s Christmas in Wales.
Today continues overcast, cold, dreary weather, with a touch of mist thrown in. It doesn’t help attain or maintain jolly seasonal spirits. but folks seem to manage, although those of us susceptible to Seasonal Affective Disorder have to manage more. Vitamins C and D anyone? At least at the [for the] moment, there’s not yet snow in the forecast.
The Druidry information I’ve been reading makes a point of noting that the winter solstice represents the death and rebirth of the sun’s light, and the beginning of a new cycle as the days grow longer and spring begins to approach. I’m finding myself wishing for a better, kinder, more gentle year ahead and the birth of a more widespread recognition that we’re all in this together on the only planet that we have. I fear next year is likely to be a trying time for many of US and hope that enjoying this year's celebration of Solstice, Christmas, leading to New Year, will provide the reserves and resiliency we need to get through it and make the most of it, not so much for ourselves but
For the Children
The rising hills, the slopes,
of statistics
lie before us.
the steep climb
of everything, going up,
up, as we all
go down.In the next century
or the one beyond that,
they say,
are valleys, pastures,
we can meet there in peace
if we make it.To climb these coming crests
one word to you, to
you and your children:stay together
learn the flowers
go light
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Thanks for visiting. Come again when you can.
Please be kind to each other while you can.
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