Dear WeatherCat observers of the seasons turning,
I was surprised that nobody started a thread commemorating this year's Winter Solstice and the official start of winter. This morning I was greeted by this scene shortly before dawn:
It was a cold morning and I couldn't help but think about all the ancient civilizations that performed rituals around the passing of the seasons. Of all those transitions, the start of winter would seem to be the least interesting for a civilization founded on agriculture. Quite the opposite, for many cultures the start of winter was considered a critical moment in their religion and could, as it is for the Egyptians, serve as a gateway between the living and the dead.
Christmas is only 4 days away and a lot has been said about the paradox of celebrating this most modern holiday so close to when the ancients had religious traditions like the Egyptians. The more I think about it, the more I'm convinced Christmas must be celebrated at this time so important for the ancients. It wasn't supplanting those older religions - it was providing the answer to all those ancient prayers expressed is so many varied ways.
Peace be with all of you, . . . .
Edouard