Perhaps you’d like to take a break from headlines and take a stroll with me on this Winter Solstice? Then, that’s exactly what I suggest we do on this December evening.

“During the 1880 Christmas season, Thomas Edison introduced the first outdoor electric Christmas light display to the world…Edward Johnson, who was an inventor under the supervision of Thomas Edison, created the first string of Christmas lights a couple of years later. The string of lights was made out of 80 small electric light bulbs. In 1890, the strings of lights were mass-produced and department stores began displaying them in Christmas displays in their stores” (Newton).

“The incandescent Christmas lights that cheerfully light up the dark days of December have come a long way. Candles on trees and in windows have given way to massive outdoor displays that attract visitors from miles away. The mini light is the most popular light style, and most of these lights come with a built-in twinkle” (Newton).

History is always worth knowing, but when it comes to lights, it is the strands of colored and white light during this long dimly-lit month that matter the most. Making the darkness bright is a welcome sight to behold on these longest nights, a treasure really.

As we stroll around the grounds, passing by family clusters and friend groups, we rejoice with the extended laughter and familial camaraderie that echoes through the black and takes us all straight into the light echoing like the union uniting us on this journey.

What a treat to wander through the extraordinary display, making merry as we do. Perhaps your community has such displays open to the public, if so, I encourage you to spend time meandering about under the stars with your eyes fixed on hope and joy.

Here’s to all the goodness we’re due and so much more. Happiest of holidays my dears.

May 2024 bring you more, open many a door, and roll in with so much love to help you soar, xxoo

Winter Lights courtesy of Shelburne Museum