During autumn, the light outside is dwindling. Slowly but surely, the days are getting shorter. We notice how early the sun sets in the evening. There is no time after dinner to go for a walk in the light, so we walk before eating.
When my children were young, we would call it a “beat the dark walk”. The sun would already be low in the sky at 4:30 p.m.. On our walks, we would observe and collect things – acorns, leaves, rocks, and pinecones. At home, we would display our treasures on a “nature table”, an altar to honor the natural world that holds and sustains us.
With my children grown, I continue walking before dinner in the fall and winter. I collect things on walks or in my garden and arrange them on a table indoors. It gives me solace to connect with nature, recognizing its ever-changing nature within predictable rhythms.
Since my children were in a Waldorf school, we have celebrated a festival of light in November, called Martinmas, named for the generous spirit of St. Martin. The story is that when he saw a man begging, he got off his horse, tore his cloak, and gave half to the beggar. In this festival, we walk with lanterns in the early evening singing songs about the light. We remember that generosity is gesture that stokes the light within.
When we gathered in community to celebrate festivals like Martinmas, our light glowed stronger and brighter. We radiated and reflected light amongst us. This year, I am wonder how I will kindle the inner light. How will I remain warm and radiant throughout the cold, dark months that lie ahead of us?
When we cannot gather, we can recall celebrations of the past and stay connected in other ways. Knowing that what lies outside of us also lies inside, we can look within for a glimmer of light. There is no darkness so great that it can snuff out the light within, much like the light outside may grow dim but the sun does not cease to shine.
Think of the darkness of winter as a womb that holds us while we grow our capacity to hold the light. What will I bring with me into this womb? I intend to bring compassion so I can stay calm and centered. I am often surprised by what I discover within myself. Whatever it is, I embrace it. I know that in the darkness, I find the light.
Have you discovered ways to keep your inner light glowing through the upcoming winter? Share your ideas by posting on the FB page for judithfrizlen.com or email me at judith@judithfrizlen.com.