Winter Solstice 2011

Tomorrow night we will celebrate the winter solstice, along with everyone to the east of us, those to the west will have to wait for the 23rd December. The shortest day, then we will slowly enjoy more daylight as we move through winter. To me it is like asking if your glass is half empty or half full, tomorrow indicates the first day of winter or the point that daylight returns. My answer is half full and longer days are coming, so that must make me a positive thinker!

One of the most thrilling moments for me was watching the sun set at Stonehenge in England. During the winter solstice it sets between 2 upright and one horizontal stone. I only saw it once in that particular place but the sight has stayed with me. When I was young it was still possible to walk amongst the stones and touch them but since the late 1970's they have been cordoned off. Built almost 5000 years ago, Stonehenge builders showed understanding of some sophisticated mathematics but the magic is its alignment with midsummer sunrise, midwinter sunset and the most southerly and northerly settings of the moon. The builders had no idea that in worlds yet to be discovered, the timing of the winter solstice would not coincide with the setting sun.

(winter solstice sunset at Stonehenge. Credit Wikimedia Commons)

It doesn't matter what your religious views or convictions may be, the winter solstice is a point of hope and excitement, a visceral reaction to the sun's movement and an acknowledgement that we are at the mercy something greater than ourselves for life here on earth. A moment to reflect and celebrate, whether you say "Merry Christmas", "Happy Channuka" or "Happy Holiday" the solstice affects us all.

We wish each of you a safe journey, a happy time with friends and family and a wonderful 2012.

Edith & Anita.