Shine on

December Greetings from the great Northwest.

It's winter solstice, the shortest day of the year. Even though I always celebrate the return of long sunny days, I have learned to love this season of long nights in the north. They are an invitation, no-definitely a firm suggestion, to pause. When the light is low or disappeared, all other senses seem to heighten. And, on a clear night, the sky is the imax of all imax's, reminding us that there are mysteries that will outlast us all.

With Christmas around the corner, the world is brightened
by strands of colorful lights. The beauty of lights relies on their partnership with the darkness they inhabit; the ultimate metaphor.

I've been noticing a Christmas tree on the side of a country road lately on my way into town.
It's a living tree, simply decorated, understated.  It makes me smile, and  I appreciate whoever listened to their holiday muse and chose to light the way for passers by.

As we work to create light for others, we naturally light our own way. 
- Mary Anne Radmacher

Beauty is whatever gives joy. - Edna St. Vincent Millay

Like moths to a flame, we are drawn to light, wherever we find it - strings of lights, candles, campfires, and smiling eyes.
Like kindness, hope and courage, light keeps us warm, and helps us see better.

May we all let our lights shine this season, and throughout the year.

Yeah, we all shine on like the moon, and the stars, and the sun.
-John Lennon