I’ve been blessed today with validation that what I do matters. a much better freshwater hose, family and friends, and the peace and quiet of these woods. I find myself wanting to sing “Silent night, Solstice night” – knowing that if I were back home the ground would be covered in snow – while readying a few things for a ritual that will begin at 11pm so as to span the actual time of the solstice.
If you don’t know the song, the lyrics are below. You just might find yourself singing it (to the music of “Silent Night, Holy Night.”)

“A Pagan Silent Night”
by Ellen Reed

Silent night, Solstice night
All is calm, all is bright
Nature slumbers in forest and glen
Till in Springtime She wakens again
Sleeping spirits grow strong!
Sleeping spirits grow strong!

Silent night, Solstice night
Silver Moon shining bright
Snowfall blankets the slumbering Earth
Yule fires welcome the Sun’s rebirth
Hark, the Light is reborn!
Hark, the Light is reborn!

Silent night, Solstice night
Quiet rest till the Light
Turning ever the rolling Wheel
Brings the winter to comfort and heal
Rest your spirit in peace!
Rest your spirit in peace!