Hidden life beneath the snow and ice can take many forms.  This year, our active lives themselves are ready to burst forth when the vaccine allows a new normal to arrive.  For now, it’s still safest for everyone to hibernate at home.  We saw another example last week, with the methanogen bacteria under frozen lakes, hiding methane under the ice, ready to burst forth in flame.   

Celebrations

The Winter Thermstice is the time of the deepest cold (on average).  Despite the cold, life exists, hidden beneath the snow.   Gathering strength, yet hidden in many ways.  How long and harsh will this winter be?  Can traditions of groundhogs or candles tell us?  I recently saw a Pagans personalized Wheel of the Year, and they had Imbolc labelled as “Brightening“, opposite the sacred holiday of “Dimming”.  I think these are great names – though the change does start at the Solstices, it’s later that the change begins to be noticeable.  These and many other themes join with the making of candles and wintertime celebrations.

Some of the ways many of us are celebrating were published a few weeks ago, and I’m in the process of getting both the candle making supplies and ritual materials ready.  My kids (and I!) are looking forward to making snow cream for Imbolc as well.   However you are celebrating (including Summmer Thermstice/Lammas celebrations in the Southern Hemisphere), may your be celebration be blessed.