Happy Winter Solstice!

Last night at 12:30am was the exact time when the tilt of the Earth’s axis at the North Pole was farthest away from the sun marking the shortest day of the year and the beginning of winter.

That means the light is returning, slowly but surely. And in this emerging light we should have reason to celebrate.

Especially true in the higher latitudes that spend weeks in darkness, save for the light of the moon, waiting for that first new sunrise to break.

Worldwide, the varying cultures have all celebrated this event in their own way since before recorded history. These celebrations took place knowing that in the coming months their very survival was at stake.

I know I am lucky to not have that fear. To not have to worry about if food will become scarce, if my children will go hungry, is something that I have not had to worry about. This is not the case for nearly half of Americans and millions of others around the world.

Celebrate the returning of the light by doing something for the good of humankind.

• Volunteer. Have a favorite local organization that could use a few volunteers? Or go to a site like Volunteer Match or The Corporation for National and Community Service to find a volunteer opportunity that fits your skills and interests.
• Give The Gift Of Life. Still looking for last-minute gift ideas for friends or family? I mentioned before about World Vision’s gift catalog and some important organizations that desperately need the gift of donation. Donate to the local food bank, adopt a family, or send a few things to Toys for Tots – it all makes a difference in someone else’s life.
• Be Kind.