At the Winter Solstice

(By Hanna Lange)

I believe that darkness ultimately gives way to light, and so at the Solstice, I affirm these things for myself, at the turning of the year. I believe that compassion and wisdom are sown in the fields of suffering, although not exclusively there. I believe that the pain born of my mistakes and those of others can serve a greater purpose. I believe that I must fight not to rush into gratification without pausing for gratitude. I believe that I am constantly called to move toward my best self. I believe I have a responsibility to seek and speak my truth. And I believe, no matter how long or dark the road before me looks, if it leads me to my highest self, the birthright promised to us all by the divine, then no matter how tired or frightened or lonely or angry or confused I may be, I can do no less than take up a torch and follow it, because it is the right road, even when it is not an easy one.