the Way of the Turtle

WINTER SOLSTICE
December 22, 2008

At 1:08 AM, to be exact.

Astronomically, the significance is simple - the solstice occurs at the time when the earth's rotation axis, which is tilted 23.44 degrees, is pointing directly away from the Sun. This has two effects major effects in the Northern Hemisphere. Since the Sun's radiation is spread over a larger area because of this tilt, the Northern Hemisphere is cooler, and we have winter. Also, since the Sun will stay its lowest above the horizon and spend the least time in the sky, resulting in the shortest hours of daylight for the year. In the US this date is referred to as the first full day of winter, though some countries consider the solstices and equinoxes to be the mid-point of the seasons.

Historically many holidays and celebrations have been observed on or near the solstice. Some of this had to do with supersititions and beliefs regarding the Sun - the solstice was viewed as a time of rebirth, when the various sun gods would be reborn or renewed. Other celebrations were much more practical in nature, and involved getting ready for the difficult months to follow, when food would be much more difficult to come by.

The solstice has significance both practical and spiritual to me, as well. From a practical point of view, it's an indication that the days will soon begin to get longer, and the hours that I'm forced to run and ride in darkness will become shorter. That same process also helps pick up my spirits - while I at times enjoy being out in the dark, it is often a struggle to get out on the trail or the path after a long day at work, especially knowing that I have primarily dark and cold to look forward to. I enjoy winter... but each day now is a step towards light and warmth and once again being surrounded by green growing things!

JMH