It is the busy season, and as we systematically wind up the last month of 2023, we attempt to jam it all into a few weeks. It is a season of endings and new beginnings; sometimes, we must finish something before we begin something new. Have you struggled to complete something that lingers in your life? This year, the universe helped many complete things they may have been holding on to, thus creating a vortex of space for 2024 to fill in.

Between December 12 and December 21 is an excellent time for us to release energies. We may become busy with the holiday season, but spirit somehow always finds ways to help us slow our pace so that we may focus within. This is a nine-day span, but what about the 12 days of Christmas?  

In some cultures, there are 12 days of blessings, which may be a simple reminder to focus on the energy at that moment. I see this period as the 12 days of gratitude and blessing for all that is and all that is possible. The new moon in Sagittarius on December 12 will remind many what to AIM for. There are also some significant planetary transitions happening this time of year, where we move from the energy that has influenced our AIM for the last few years to the energy of USE. This includes a deeper understanding of our power, our energy, our love, and how to put it to use effectively. The strength of 2024 will provide numerous transitions and help us to move along on our journey and celebrate the growth of our inner light. 

Winter Solstice December 21. It is the midpoint of winter, the shortest day of daylight, and the longest point of darkness. The world is very still, and the land is dormant, much like what happens within us when we go through dormant cycles. In this quietness, it is an opportunity to contemplate a ‘season’ past or the ‘season’ that was and then the ‘seasons’ yet to come. Like when the earth goes dormant, internal growth remains, which we should nurture.  

This time of year also helps us hold a vigil on intent. Various’ festivals of light’ are celebrated and have been for thousands of years, serving as a reminder that the light will indeed return after the darkest day. (December 21) Ceremonies and events of many cultures used fire as a sacred element. The purpose was to allow it to burn for the night to burn off one’s dross or rubbish (English term), the ‘stuff’ we no longer need, thus revealing our gold (the golden light). In some cultures, it is a deliberate, intense, and intent-full night of dancing, drumming, rattling, chanting, meditating, healing, and holding space for this light. It is a time for us to remember to share our light.  Perhaps December 31st celebration of New Year mimics this tradition and has been aligned with the Calendar year. It is a time to reflect on the past while welcoming hope for the New Year.     

In December, as many are experiencing a final push of inward work, we can also be reminded of our perception of perfection. We are always ‘perfect,’ though we might not feel at our best at times; we are experiencing all we need for our particular journey. On December 27, we’ll feel the energy of the emotional Full Moon in Cancer and reflect on our past, present, and future.   

I hope you experience calm and peace this holiday season and are surrounded by people who love and support you. I wish for you to shine your light so bright that others recognize your soul essence. 

Shine your light and let the world see your brightness Be blessed.  ~Laurie