Light, Warmth, Energy

 Summer Solstice Is Today at 1:16 p.m

Notice the Sun

       It is ironic that today, the first day of summer, which heralds days of heat and light, summer fun, summer sun, is also the Summer Solstice, which marks the sun’s trek away from the Earth. Today, at 1:16 p.m. in the Northern Hemisphere, the sun begins to go south.

Light, let there be light. Light is more abundant today, this longest day, than on any other day. As the sun moves toward the shortest, darkest day (December 21), we would be remiss to not notice the sun, to not notice the light, to not express gratitude for the live-giving, life-sustaining source of energy, warmth, heat, light, food, shelter.

Summer solstice has been celebrated as long as humans have had rituals. Several rituals marking this Solstice are considered pagan, but don’t let religious separatism prevent you from being aware of this longest day. Early Celtic groups celebrated Summer Solstice with a bonfire. If you live in sun-parched Florida, Arizona, or any other drought-stricken area, don’t try this at home. European festivities include gathering flowers and herbs.
       Foods served at Summer Solstice gatherings focus on sun colors, red, orange, gold, yellow—think summer squash, corn, tomatoes, watermelon, peaches, nectarines, raspberries, strawberries. Honey, golden rich and the bounty of bees dancing among the spring flowers and early summer blooms, also is served at Summer Solstice.
Foods served at Summer Solstice gatherings focus on sun colors—red, orange, gold, yellow—think summer squash, corn, tomatoes, watermelon, peaches, nectarines, raspberries, strawberries. Honey, golden rich and the bounty of bees dancing among the spring flowers and early summer blooms, also is served at Summer Solstice.

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What will you do with the extra light today? Take a few moments to appreciate the precious gift of the sun. I know it’s hot outside. It is summer, however, as the sun leaves us for the day and the Earth cools, sit outside, take a walk, pay attention, celebrate the sun.