The Winter Solstice has passed and the days will now slowly lengthen.

We acknowledged the turning year Wednesday evening by lighting the Chanukah candles and holding a ceremony for Grandfather Fire, a confluence of two tribal traditions. Those gathered sent many expressions of gratitude and prayers to the Creator via Grandfather. Last night, under an immense old maple tree, we joined friends as they lit a fire to the returning sun.  In these ways we remembered that we are indeed connected to All That Is. We also reminded others that, like Horton, “We’re Here!”

Today, Christmas Eve eve, the ground lies bare. Overnight there was snow in the hills and mountains, but here in the great valley there is only rain. We await Christmas and winter.