The Saddest Day of the Year

Unbelievably, it is upon us once again. The longest day of the year, the shortest night of the year.

I cannot fathom the mentality of those who, for long centuries, have celebrated this day, Midsummer, and still do. The Sol Invictus is beating a retreat. The culmination of its power marks the beginning of its inevitable descent. 
It's not Light who's winning today - it's Darkness.

I have been depressed by "midsummer" ever since the day when I first found out its astronomical meaning. Conversely, from that same day on I have been celebrating December 21st  - celebrating genuinely, in my heart. It is the gladdest day of the year. From then on, no matter how dark it might get yet, light is winning, slowly but steadily.

Still, make hay while you can. Wander through the woods; perhaps a fern seed will fall in your shoes and you will be able to understand the language of animals, as a lovely old folk tradition promises. 
Go pick St John's Wort (ironically enough, the premier natural remedy for depression) which derives its name from St John's feast (June 24th), when this wonderful flower is at the peak of its strength and should be harvested.

Enjoy the fireflies' magical, mysterious dance. 

And cherish the light. Store it and preserve it, like you would do with ripe, sweet cherries, so that it might last you through the dark days.

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