~~~~ LETS BRING BACK THE LIGHT ~~~~

Winter solstice this year is Thursday December 22.

The solstice happens at the same instant for all of us, everywhere on Earth. But our clocks say different times.

In 2011, in my area, Southern, California  the clock says Wednesday, December 21 at 9:30 p.m. PST

Sunlight on Earth, on the day of the winter solstice. Notice that the northern polar region of Earth is in 24-hour darkness, while the southern polar region is in 24-hour daylight.

The Ancients  (Druids) were much in tune with Mother Earth and her cycles. Each year after the shortest day of the year a Yule log is burned from the Ash tree which is appropriate, as this tree was thought to have protective qualities ~~~ particularly protective of children. Traditionally, a piece of Yule log saved from the prior winter solstice is used to burn the current log. This tradition is symbolic of the continuity of life, and also falls in-line with the symbolism of renewal and life from death (flame from the ashes, sunlight from the darkness). In most ancient European cultures the duration of the log burning indicated the duration of the festivities. So, it made sense the biggest, greenest log would be sought after to insure that the log could be enjoyed for a long time. 

In all of the Winter Solstice celebrations  I have attended a drum circle was created and dance was inspired, all in celebration of the returning of the light-sun as the days start to get longer.

What I find interesting is that while most religions, especially Christianity, has the tradition of a Yule log in their fireplace, most of  the Christmas season, there is no mention that it can represent the beckoning of the new light on earth. Instead ~~  the Yule log has become a popular desert ~~ a log of chocolate, ~~ not that I have anything against chocolate, I love chocolate. 

There is nothing more fulfilling then a connection with Mother Gaia in a primeval sense, acknowledging her heart beat and becoming one with her in harmony during the entire year!

Regardless of religious believes ~~~ may we all be in harmony so that Mother Earth will continue to provide us with warmth, nutrition and beauty for many generations to come.