Tomorrow, 21st June, is the winter solstice – the shortest day in the year. In historic times it used to be a day of significance, particularly in the northern hemisphere, when the solstice is 21st December. It meant the beginning of the ‘return’ of the sun; the beginning of a new year; a renewal; the coming of a new season – hence the celebration of Christmas and the giving of gifts (not called Christmas in those days of course – this was long before Christianity was thought of).
No one today cares and most would not even know the day’s significance, more is the pity. Once we lose our connection with the natural world we lose something precious; that is part of us and what made us what we are; it is part of our heritage.
Of course in ancient times people had time and the inclination (no TV, radio, CDs or DVDs) to really observe nature and the ebb and flow of the tides and changing seasons. It was of vital importance to their supply of food and their well being.
We city dwellers are seldom able to see, with any clarity, the night sky, because of the ‘loom’ of the city lights. We have no time to sit under the stars and contemplate nature and what it means to us. We are diminished as human being by the loss of this vital connection.
Have a happy winter solstice.
No comments:
Post a Comment