Not since 21 December 1638 has there been a total lunar eclipse coinciding with a solstice! This rare cosmic event sees the Earth casting a shadow on the moon which will be visible from 4 continents. In the past such an event might well have been viewed as a blessing. So why shouldn't we?
With the Northern Hemisphere in the grip of winter, and snow, ice and freezing fog making us shiver, another way of looking at this Winter Solstice is as an auspicious time to renew ourselves. We can let go of negativity and what no longer works in our world and look forward to the future and the birth of the new.
Signs of positive change
It's been a challenging year for everyone, but however insurmountable the problems may seem, there is no reason to be downcast. All around us there are signs of positive change. A natural process of death and rebirth is unfolding on our planet today.
The Winter Solstice, also known as Yule, was celebrated in Britain long before the arrival of Christianity. Many cultures recognize this time as one of great significance in the annual calendar, marking it with rituals, festivals and holidays. Birth and rebirth are common themes of these celebrations. Amidst the darkness the light emerges, bringing hope for the future.
We have a choice
As we move towards the celebrations of Christmas and New Year, it's vital to keep alive meaningful traditions whilst at the same time embracing new and different ideas. So many people are longing for a ray of hope amidst the gloom. As surely as the sun rises each morning and eclipses come and go, we can put our trust in life's processes. All we have to do is to look at things differently and reframe the problems and crises. We have a choice either to hold on to the past and the old ways that aren't working, or to open ourselves up to new ideas and possibilities of a more compassionate way of living.
May your heart be filled with peace and love this season of theWinter Solstice.
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