Back to Basics

I recently overhead a discussion about the greetings people share in December. It was partially sparked by a yard sign that read, "Please wish me a Merry Christmas."

The sign could have been interpreted in two ways: 1.) a Christian's dig against the diluted "Happy Holidays" greeting; 2.) or a Christian's affirmation of his or her beliefs. While I didn't take part in the discussion, I found myself thinking about one greeting that works for all of us ... for every human that walks the Earth:

"Happy Solstice"

Our ancestors once believed magic, witchcraft, or an appeasement to the Gods was at play, but as wisdom progressed, we learned that the Earth's position in our solar system affects the presence or absence of live-giving sunlight. Through scientific discovery, we know why the sun wanes as well as when it will return, and we also have an explanation as to why we feel the way we do during this dark time in the Northern Hemisphere.

Like the full moon that prompts a wolf to howl, a short, nine-hour day has a true physical effect on us. Our bodies do not produce adequate amounts of vitamin D – the sunshine vitamin – when the sun is so low in the sky. The symptoms of deficiency include depression, insomnia, and even heart disease. Plus, I'm less likely to get outside and exercise when it's dark and cold, and we all know about the health benefits of outdoor activity.

When I dig underneath the surface, I must admit that I feel retracted, malnourished, edgy, and woeful. The problems of the world get me down this time of year more than any other.

The faraway sun drags out my fears and reduces my resolve.

I try to hear the messages of hope during the religious holidays, but what my spirit really needs is the return of the sun.

There is still plenty of dreaded cold weather to come; today is just the first day of winter. Yet, with each day, my hope is regained as the birds sing a few seconds earlier, and the shadows linger a minute later.

Religious leaders will warn you not to worship a false God, yet I see nothing wrong with anyone giving thanks to the sun. We know of no other planet in the universe that contains liquid water; all other water out there is either frozen solid or evaporated gas. Without the sun -- at a perfect distance from Earth -- there simply would be no life here. Its return is worth celebrating.

We can even thank the sun for the icicles since they form only after the snow begins to melt.

A watered-down greeting is a byproduct of rich diversity, and I appreciate the sensitivity given to all cultures when it comes to "Season's Greetings." Plus, when we get back home, among our community and the ones we love, the precise wishes for happiness are then made all the more special. However, for me, whether I am at home or out in the world, no other greeting is more musical than "Happy Solstice."

Since today marks the return of longer days, I will soon settle down for a less-long Winter's nap.

And my sincere wish is that you find happiness in the solstice too -- wherever you may live.