Solstice

Photo © Rob Jones

I always make a point of waiting for the sun to rise on the Winter solstice. And if possible to watch it set. (Weather permitting.)

I do the same on the longest day.

I am hard pressed to say why, apart from some lingering thought that I might just see nature change its mind and pull back from the brink of darkness. It’s a little like watching someone walking along a coast path until they are a dot in the distance, only to see them decide that they had better start back while there is still energy in their legs.

You can sense a general feeling of relief in others too. OK, so the worst of the winter’s weather is probably yet to come, but there is hope. The days will get longer, the plants will wake up, and warmer weather will arrive.

Meanwhile, we’ll feast on root vegetables, eat mince pies, down Christmas dinners and set fire to puddings. We’ll wear holly in our hair, kiss under mistletoe, and wassail with hot mulled cider, making a toast to the year to come.

And a little further afield - the Vikings will eat Lutefisk dried fish and Risgrynsgröt rice pudding, with a hidden almond in it - whose finder will be blessed with good luck.

And further still, the Chinese will be making Tangyuan, sweet glutinous rice balls symbolising reunion and harmony, and traditionally enjoyed in a warm broth surrounded by family and friends.

Regardless of where you are, it’s all about community, sharing, gratitude, and the anticipation of longer, brighter days to come.

R.