Today is the shortest day of the year. Throughout history various cultures celebrated the event. Seasonally, it marks the first day of winter. When I was young I did wonder if yesterday/tomorrow actually felt longer. (Mere seconds per experts; which leads to the questions: “whoever noticed the difference thousands of years ago? And, how was the measurement accomplished?”) Perhaps it all started so that Pagans had a reason to party. The exact timing of the event may have had to wait until more recent history when an aspiring astronomer put a zillion and a zillion together for a specific calculation to facilitate party planning. (Tomorrow’s the big bonfire! Gather the Yule Logs.)
Papa once had high hopes of being a crumudgeon and rolled over and fell back to sleep on this festive day. However, my ‘ol DNA had more Pagan than the whiner gene so it’s up and at it. Solstice 2022 began as a sunny day with a clear sky. Now, it’s maybe a short walk or even shorter time at a gym as active celebration. Or, some contemplative time. One old tradition was making wishes for the future. ( I wish for candidates that do not age qualify for Medicare.) Improving one’s self can wait until New Year’s resolutions. Or, even later.
Of course, the Winter Solstice marks closing in on Christmas. Only one grandchild will travel this season. Fittingly into an aptly named winter storm. Locally, cold and ice is forecast to be fast approaching but winter’s worst cannot dampen the joyous spirit of being with family. Together with you is my most important wish as it is every year.