As we stand here, on the cusp of the new year, ready to welcome back the sun, we find ourselves wishing for many things.  Yule is a time to let go of the past and look forward to the future.  It’s easy to get swept up in the modern celebrations of this season, and forget to properly recognize the solstice.  Our lives can be so busy, each day blurring into the next.  Let this day be a reminder to slow down, and take the time.  Take the time to be present with your family.  Take the time to fully honor your faith.  Make time today to simply be.  Though we look upon the new year with hope and light, the future is never certain.  But if we raise our own light, as we also raise the sun, the future can be made a little brighter.  Happy hibernal solstice!