Today is the “shortest” day of the year. I’ve always wondered about this title; since December 21 has 24 hours in it, just as every other day in the year does. But what it really means is that today has less sunlight than any other day in the year. That’s where the “shortest” comes in.
Where I live this is insignificant, since grey gloom usually descends around the beginning of December; and sunlight – long or short – is a moot point. In fact, this time of year, I look forward to darkness to camouflage the grey.
In spite of the grey solstice, I had a wonderful day. Started at the dentist’s, which probably isn’t most peoples’ definition of ‘wonderful’; but I always love how my teeth feel after being cleaned. And that’s what the visit was about. No cavities, no root canals, no gum problems. Just a plain old cleaning. My tongue glides across my teeth as I write.
Then there was the piano lesson, the conversation with a great friend, a visit to see my former neighbor, and still time to read regardless of the ‘length’ of the day. Christmas is four days away; and I’m blessed that I’m almost ready. Have to wrap seven gifts for various family members and that’s it. Easy.
For the rest of the evening, I’m hunkering down with my Kindle®. Am going to finish Audrey Niffenegger’s new book, meditate on the meaning of the shortest day in the year, and go to bed completely relaxed. Amen.
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