Days are growing dramatically shorter, as the northern hemisphere races towards its rendezvous with the winter solstice. The word solstice, derived from Latin, means "sun stands still," and all around us nature is sending the message that it's time to do the same. The huge oak tree that overlooks my studio has finally dropped its leaves, and my garden is nothing but dry sticks on bare, frozen earth. This is the time of year to slow down, pull in, and rest. I want to hibernate, climb into bed the minute the sun sinks below the horizon in the late afternoon (and not climb out till its well up in the morning sky). Instead I'm "living the list," revving up to finish my holiday shopping and planning out my schedule for the next two weeks of family travel and celebration. All to the good, but somehow out of step with the real season (the beginning of winter, not the holiday season). As far back as memory reaches, humans have been reacting to the growing darkness with fire and noise to encourage the return of the sun. Our solstice traditions, religious and secular, are laminated onto ancient tribal and Roman customs. The centuries haven't changed us; we're still afraid of the dark. We respond with parties and presents and a deep need for connection. Perfectly understandable. But darkness is the only excuse I need to sit in a comfortable chair in front of a fire and read a good book. As soon as the holidays are over, I'll do just that…
If you don't have a fireplace, but you do have a smartphone or tablet, download one of the many free fireplace apps, and enjoy a cheery blaze to bring virtual warmth and a bit of comfortable introspection to the season.