The magic of the snow warmed my heart. It crystallized snowflakes lingered on the goblets set out. As I walked into the heart of the forest, there was a small fire in the depths. Flickers from the flames reflecting from each ice decoration. They have been made and set out. Each one is designed as a woodland animal. Four that were created. Deer, squirrel, rabbit and baby bear. Close to the fire was a medium sized spruce tree. On the branches were red, green and gold ribbons. On each ribbon were home made treats for the birds.
Three young ladies, one with red hair, one with light blond and the other with black. Wore long red robes lined with thick cotton battens. Along the hem, small holly leaves and berries were added as decorations. On their hands, they wore thick leather gloves. A deep red as wine in color, on each hand a poinsettia was designed.
“Alright ladies, tonight is the night,” her black hair was shiny and thick as she took down the hood that covered it from the fresh fallen snow.
The other two did the same, coming to the fire and smiling happily. It was a magical time, it filled the air or restfulness that would soon be done as the darkness set aside. Their voices united as they said a quiet thanks. With each voice, the fire sputtered, the smell of dried herbs that they added to the fire. Now they each took their glass of cold cider and sipped. Around them, a small flurry of flakes ruffled around them, birds fluttered to the tree dressed in treats for them.
Shortest day of the year, they brought thanks to the night with candles and fire. Elements of dried herbs sprinkled in their drinks, and over the ground they walked on. Closing their eyes, they each held hands. Seeing in the future a full sun, warm and welcoming.
I watched in awe as they took their gloves off. Their long slender fingers moving and gliding into the air. As they looked intensely into the fire as their hands moved. Snow twirled around them, teasing their hair making it fluttered up in winding curls. One pointed to the small ice figurines, once frozen solid and now moving as if alive. Another woman making the snow shimmer and shine brighter than it already had, now intensified with each one she touched as they fluttered from the sky.
Slowly, I turned around and went back home. Knowing that one day, I too will be part of the winter solstice traditions.
No comments:
Post a Comment