Years ago, my friend and colleague, MaryBeth French ( (PE), decided to collaborate for a solstice celebration at our elementary school. As the librarian, I told the tale of the Sun Man, an old Bushman folktale, and introduced students to the non-fiction book Sun by Seymour Simon. After the stories, students had streamers of crepe paper where they created dances about the sun and its rays. It was a phenomenal lesson and so much fun. I wish there were a video of the beautiful dances the children created. Unfortunately, an administrator outside the school was touring and observing our celebration. We were told to cease and desist from solstice celebrations lest they were thought “too pagan.” This has mildly bothered me off and on throughout the years. Since then, my friend and colleague always wish each other a “Happy Solstice,” with tongue-in-cheek memories of the thwarted, beautiful lesson.
Not to be too ‘woo-woo,’ but I think the ancients had an inner knowledge. There is a feeling of lightness, a beginning – literally and figuratively, as we celebrate the festivals of light in the dark winter months.
This year, I will be happy for longer days filled with light and warmth. Happy Winter Solstice! May your days grow longer!
