“Though my soul may set in darkness,
it will rise in perfect light.
I have loved the stars too fondly
to be fearful of the night.”
Sarah Williams
Bela Bartok's "Winter Solstice Song"
The purpose of a ritual is to set it a part from everyday life and to create a sacred space. Tonight, we read the story of the Holly King and the Oak King by candlelight. We vow to live only with candles on the coming day.
“In the depth of winter, I finally learned that within me
there lay an invincible summer.”
Albert CamusWe put our hopes in the ever-widening circles and ripples which lead our hearts and minds outwards. We tell stories and discover the ways in which our own stories build upon the stories we taste, touch, and feel.
"The Yule Faeries" by James Claire Lewis
The story of the Holly King and Mistletoe, an annual telling and retelling for us, is central to the celebration.
And so here it is... our guide of readings and rituals for one of the year's most beautiful days. Please download it, use it, enjoy it-- add, subtract, build as will.
Celebrate the season of light.
And never, ever, ever, ever fear the darkest night.
To download, just right click and save as.
Winter Solstice Family Guide (PDF)
Inside the guide, readings and traditions to celebrate yule. For example, you will find a meditation on darkness as well as a wishes for the year.
To burn what is past and yet to remain somehow lit by it.
Happy Solstice and Merry Yule everyone! From our embers to yours.
