A joyous Yule to all.

Last night was the longest night of the year, Yule, winter solstice, midwinter's night. Today the sun starts it's journey north again. For many thousand years midwinter's night has been celebrated throughout the northern hemisphere, thousands of years before the Johnny-come-lately religions. In ancient tradition people give gifts in celebration, and lit a fire, or put up candles or other lights against the dark, little lights to grow into the return of the sun. The new religion has taken over the holiday, adopted the lighting of lights and overlaid their religion on the ancient celebration. The 12 days of Roman Saturnalia became the 12 days of Christmas. But old tradition dies hard, and everywhere you go people still light their lights on the darkest night, a Yule fire, a candle, or 10,000 little lights against the dark.

For all you of every faith may your little lights grow into brilliance in the coming months. May you have a joyous and festive midwinter feast, however you choose to celebrate.
Bob