Some of you know that I've been hosting an annual Solstice Ceremony and Celebration for the past 25 years. I began this tradition the year my son was born, because I didn't want him to see Christmas as a time for greed and commercialism, but still wanted our family to enjoy the festivities of the season. I began to research the origins of modern Christmas practices, and when I learned about the nature-based milestones on which many of our popular celebrations are based, I was delighted to find a way to make seasonal holidays meaningful for me as a non-Christian.  

. What thought patterns would I like to change?

. What attachments can I release for my highest good?

. What wisdom seeks to reveal itself to me at this time?

. What fears and judgments am I ready to release?

. How might I awaken as the rebirth of Spring arrives?

. How can I best focus on my blessings this season?

Solstice is  a natural time for releasing our resentments and regrets from the darkness, knowing they will be transformed by the light. Write them on slips of paper which you can burn in your Yule fire. Feel free to create your own rituals, and if you'd like some tips for designing your own "Conscious Christmas," you might enjoy this short article.