Today is the winter solstice. In the northern hemisphere, it’s the day with the shortest period of daylight, and the longest night of the year. Not coincidentally, a number of religions choose this time of year for significant holidays, celebrations, and observances. There are good reasons for this. We acknowledge that, having come to the darkest time of the year, for the next six months, light and warmth will slowly return. The Earth has reached the limit in this particular oscillation and now will be reversing its course, away from darkness (in the northern hemisphere) and toward the light. Such a turning point is a good time to take stock of the past cycle, to surround oneself with loved ones, and to plan for the coming cycle. The yearly cycle that we acknowledge at this time of year serves as a good metaphor for what we observe and suffer through in our lives as well. All lives are subject to periods of light and dark, and it’s good to remind ourselves that the darkness doesn’t last forever. Contemplating the current state of national politics, it’s good for the sanity of a progressive to keep this in mind: Hold on—the light will return!
On the other hand, please don’t take this as an argument for progressive complacency. While the period of daylight will increase after winter solstice no matter what we do, action is what will hasten the return of light and sanity to our government. We have to act to assure that Trump never establishes legitimacy, much less any kind of mandate, as his time as head of state approaches. (I still can’t call him “president.” The thought simply makes no sense, like dividing a finite number by zero.)
A few more thoughts, and some music, below the fold.
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Being a rationalist and an atheist, I don’t go all new-age over the celebration of the solstice in particular. I will note that I have friends who do, and I’ve even attended their celebrations. But again, as I’ve said above, there’s good reason for wanting to mark this time. Having been raised Catholic, and not being completely immune from mainstream American culture, I do celebrate Christmas with my family. I want to include a little music we can associate with the season from a variety of traditions. I hope you’ll enjoy at least some of it.
And now, on to the comments!
Top Comments (December 21, 2016):
No nominations tonight, but...
Highlighted by milk bone:
Pocha gives a slight twist to a familiar quote of Molly Ivins to make a point in Egberto Willies recommended post on Bill O’Reilly’ nationals rant.
Highlighted by evergreen2:
khanenburg wonders about Obama’s reluctance to invoke the idea that people can be evil, and this provokes an interesting discussion. From topdog08’s post on the FBI’s election manipulation
Top Mojo (December 20, 2016):
Top Mojo is courtesy of mik! Click here for more on how Top Mojo works.
Top Photos (December 20, 2016):
Tonight’s picture quilt is courtesy of jotter!