A few nights ago, I was in the parking lot of my local grocery store. I’d just gotten out of my car to go inside. I overheard a young girl, probably about seven, excitedly telling her father, “The Moon! Look, there’s the Moon!” With all the distractions of this December parking lot illuminated by street lights and holiday decorations, she had her eye on the moon. I could feel my heart warm.
Friday was the Winter Solstice here in the Northern Hemisphere. My affinity for Solstice emerged naturally when I had the opportunity to caretake an old mineral springs in northern California with a band of dear friends and our children. After years of city dwelling, I was literally awestruck looking out the window of our small cabin the first night, and seeing the Milky Way. I don’t think I slept much that night.
Today I live somewhat between City and Forest, half way up a hill. From one part of the hill, I can see the whole San Francisco Bay when I am heading down into town. Just yesterday, as I was descending the hill at sunset, I was struck by the position of that beautiful orange fireball and realized, ah, solstice…the sun setting at its farthest southern point. It’s so dramatic to see. I was grateful to be in the right place at the right time and to notice.
It’s an unusual solstice time, accompanied by a full moon. Amidst the many distractions of the season, I hope you find the instinctual enthusiasm of that young girl, turn your eye toward the moon, and connect more deeply with those you love.
Warmly,
Claudia
