As we move closer to Winter Solstice, the hours of darkness continue to increase each day. With the clouds and rain here on the coast, some days almost feel as though the sun is a million miles away.
I struggle some days, like many of us, longing for the light and sun to fill me up again with its radiance and warmth.
As I become more aware of this longing, I also realize that it is because of the darkness that I know the beauty of the light. Without contrast, we have no point of reference to understand or make sense of that which we want to know or experience.
It is because of the darkness that I know the beauty of the light. I find myself asking, “What if I am able to accept the darkness as it is? Without judgement or making it bad?”.
I find myself wondering how to drop into the darkness with full acceptance of what it is. In that curiosity, it becomes easier for me to see the beauty in this heavier and more internal place of being. I am able to see the bigger picture of how the flow of seasonal changes are an intricate part of my world, both inside and out.
The darkness allows the trees and plants to rest and store up their energy in a deep and nourishing way for the following season. The rains fill the rivers and creeks allowing the salmon to continue their life cycle and for the water table to be replenished. The rainforests and all the vegetation are replenished after a rather dry summer and fall.
Within me, I recognize and deep need for rest as well. It has been a full and busy summer with lots of traveling and activities and I need some quiet time to go within and be reflective. What is it I want to be doing? Am I moving the right direction? What is it I need to fill me up during this time of darkness so I will be prepared to burst forth in the spring ready to take action and make some important moves? How can I lovingly nurture myself best right now?
I still feel a real urge to accomplish and get things done. Can I be willing to use this time to nurture and take care of myself while staying open to finding a juicy balance with action in my practice and around the house?
How are you being called to be with the darkness this year? What do you long for in the depths of your being that will nurture, replenish and fill you up?
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