Face the Darkness. Embrace the Light.

December 21 marks the winter solstice and the first day of winter.  It is the shortest day of the year, the sun is at its lowest peak, darkness reigns.  It also marks our transition back towards the light. Daylight grows a little longer each day as we approach the spring equinox when day and night are in equilibrium. 

Winter is a type of death. Trees pull their sap and nutrients back into their roots shedding their leaves, days are shorter, life slows down, some animals hibernate, nature withdraws into itself, the earth rests. Winter is also a time for regeneration, a time to go within, a time for personal growth. The winter solstice marks the time for rebirth. The sun is higher in the sky each day. 

This is a powerful time of transformation. Examine the darkness in you: lingering resentments, anger, resistance, judgment, sadness. And then let the light in. Heal your wounds, release old thought patterns and align with your light and heartfelt intentions.

In these short days and long nights connect with your own inner light, the light of transformation and healing.  Take time to reflect on the past year.  Do not avoid or bury your head because of the pain, fear, sadness or uncertainly you may have felt during the year.  Give it your direct gaze, take from it the lessons that serve you and then let it go.  With the insight and power gained from self-introspection decide how you will finish this year, and by extension, how you will usher in the new year.