The days are getting shorter as I write this, but soon, before we can even fret too much about early sunsets, that day arrives when the sun begins to make its way back to our side of the globe. The coming of longer days and more sunlight is a gift we all relish each early winter, making this a time of appreciation. Our various holidays at this time of year are also filled with a feeling of anticipation, magic, and thankfulness and light.
Added to the aura of the season are twinkling lights, candles casting a hushed glow across the tables, bonfires and Yule logs, delicious foods and special days that mark our own personal and family traditions. The lights we display inside and out seem to beckon the sun to return to us.
There is something so special about finding or making that thoughtful and meaningful gift for loved ones. It is a custom in most traditions to celebrate our gratitude with the act of giving. While children eagerly await the surprises of gelt-giving, the last day of Kwanzaa, the arrival of Santa, the Winter Solstice time and other times of gift giving traditions, the older folks seem to enjoy giving more than receiving. There is a restful balance to the give and take, and charity abounds. The essence of the meaning of charity is goodwill and a love of humanity. What better way to show our love than by giving tokens to mark the season as we acknowledge the dark time of the year, and the arrival of longer days.
Creating a holiday gift on scratchboard
Inside we kindle the lights of creativity too with handcrafted gifts made by ourselves or artisans who take delight in using their hands to create gifts of art. Often the way artists have come to their own special arts and crafts is a gift itself. We would love to hear your special story of how the gift of creativity has touched your life!
Happy Holidays To ALL!