noun
1. Astronomy:
- a. either of the two times a year when the sun is at its greatest distance from the celestial equator: about June 21, when the sun reaches its northernmost point on the celestial sphere, or about December 22, when it reaches its southernmost point.Â
- b.
either of the two points in the ecliptic farthest from the equator.
2 .a furthest or culminating point; a turning point.
“Every problem has a gift for you in its hands.” Richard Bach
As a person prone to extremes, I have always found the solstice to be a powerful time. That I am also far to the east of my usual locale also seems meaningful…
This last year has been one of profound extremes for me; in many ways both the best and hardest of my life. I have known greater happiness than I even knew was possible for me, but this was only made manifest by being driven to the very nadir of my existence.Â
It can be hard to feel grateful for the challenges that make us grow the most; particularly in their midst. Mindfulness can being attention to the realization that these times of difficulty and pain are a crucible to make us wise and strong – to temper us such that we are made of steel – if only we are able to absorb the benefits the  process can confer.  Â
Conversely, my task at this moment when there is so much light, is to remember that this zenith is fleeting. That the dimness will once again encroach. To imbibe the glory of this moment; to become drunk on its glory that I might better recall this joy in future, darker days.
I can imagine no finer task to set myself. No better company in which to do so.
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