Here Comes the Sun
by Lorri Amsden
Celebrating the summer Ancient man spent many hours gazing up at the heavens. Agricultural societies created calendars as they charted the path of the sun and moon across the sky and culture was born as solstices were observed and celebrated to honor the changing seasons. Megalithic structures were built oriented to the rising and setting of the sun on the day of the solstices and equinoxes.
(for the full article and multimedia experience, click here: OM-Times June 2010 Edition)
The summer solstice occurs mid June marking the high point of summer when the sun reaches its zenith. On this longest day of the year, the sun appears to hang in the sky without moving in fact, the Latin form of the word solstice is solstitium, which means ‘when the sun stands still’ marking the time when the sun has gained its strength, new life is flourishing and the length of night once again begins to grow.
Midsummer marks an ancient solar celebration that early agricultural societies knew as Litha, Alban Hefin, Sun Blessing, Gathering Day and St. John’s Day. This was a time of celebration, of weddings and feasts. By reconnecting to this
Ancient observance you reconnect with the wonders of the natural world. Nature is bursting with bounty. It only takes a moment to revel in its glory. Be present as you go about your day. Be aware of the warmth of the sun on your skin as you walk beneath an endless blue sky or lift your face to the summer rain and you let your heart swell. Pause to breathe deep the sweet scent flowering all around you. Stop to enjoy the fruits of the season. Relish in the sweetness of the berries as they burst in your mouth. Notice all the small pleasures nature is laying at your feet. What good is being alive if you don’t stop to notice the beauty all around?
Take time this June to rejoice and enjoy the bounty of the natural world. Now is the time for outdoor dinners, for barbecues, a time to frolic in the ocean, pool, lake or sprinklers. This month we play, taking time to relax and rejuvenate as we admire the beauty of our world. Take advantage of the warm weather and extra daylight hours by spending time outdoors. Breathe deep and reflect in the abundance around you. This is the high point of the year when fertility is at its peak and nature is in full bloom. Let the energy of the natural world lift your spirit and empower you. Work with the natural energy of this season to inspire new ideas, cultivate new projects and infuse new life into your day. Use this energy to empower yourself.
