December 25, 2024

Time to celebrate! It’s traditional. It’s wonderful to bring out the lights, the wrapped gifts, the favorite foods, and gather together. We have dedicated this last webinar of the year to Winter celebrations throughout the world, for different cultures, and its beginnings in the magic of nature: Earth’s seasons.

Let’s start with our connection with the natural world and what we experience at this time of the year, in nature. Winter begins with the darkest day of the year. And for our ancestors, who didn’t yet understand that the earth was round, that we were rotating around an axis, and that we were circling the sun. It was a mystery!  

Depending, of course, on where you were (or are) on the earth, these changes are different. But one thing is the same, there are  important  changes at the solstice. The word "solstice" is derived from the Latin word "solstitium," which means "sun standing still." It is composed of the Latin words "sol" (sun) and "sistere" (to stand still).

In the Bay Area, on the North American Continent, the solstice occurs at exactly December 21st, 1:20 am Pacific standard time. And at that moment, the sun’s rays start coming more directly at us.  

Just to reference how different it is, where you are, I had to write my own poem about winter.  Most winter poems praise the beauty of the pristine snow as it falls and as  covers the world around us – in a magical beauty and silence.

But where I live…

What is winter without snow?

Yet still the morning darkness lingers

Today is the winter solstice,

No snow, no cold, just dead leaves on the ground.

And still, it is a new beginning.

Today, the darkest day and longest night.  

And then, in a moment,

The sun’s light begins to return toward us 

Our little spot on our planet, earth,

Slowly…

Spinning on its axis,

begins to gradually tip its hat to the sun.

Here at 38 degrees of latitude.

The days lengthen. 

And we begin to rise in sunlight again.

Hurray!

Here’s a short but sweet video of different celebrations of the winter solstice,

around our world and even back into our ancient history:

And last, but not least, here’s a little bit about my own person experience from my family, from my religious background, from my ancestors…

Hanukkah

Also known as the festival of lights. And yes, there is a story. With magic, trial and triumph, and celebration.  And of course, enjoy special food such as Potato latkes (AKA pancakes). Maybe a few gifts—like Hanukkah gelt —typically, coins made of chocolate and covered with tinfoil.

Here’s some traditional and not so traditional Hanukkah music from a “Mash-up” in Downtown Chicago, 2015.

Also, here’s a recipe for Latkes (AKA potato pancakes):

How to Make Potato Latkes

Yummy!



— Susan Musicant, DPT

Injury Prevention Coordinator at DayBreak

Kwanzaa: A Celebration of Family, Community, and Culture

• Meaning: The word "Kwanzaa" is derived from the Swahili phrase "matunda ya kwanza," meaning "first fruits."
• Focus: Celebration of African-American culture, heritage, and values.
• Dates: December 26 to January 1.
• Creator: Founded in 1966 by activist Maulana Karenga, inspired by African harvest festivals.

The Core Values and Traditions

• The Seven Principles (Nguzo Saba): Unity, self-determination, collective work and responsibility, cooperative economics, purpose, creativity, and faith.
• Practices: Lighting the Kinara (seven candles), storytelling, music, and honoring ancestors.
• Culmination: A communal feast called Karamu, held on the sixth day.
• Kwanzaa emphasizes universal values of togetherness, gratitude, and cultural appreciation.

Please enjoy this wonderful, informative video about Kwanzaa:

— Rev. Dr. Barbara Galloway-Lee

Community Family Caregiver Support Coordinator at DayBreak

Christmas: The Gift of Hope

Hope in Times of Darkness: Christmas occurs in the heart of Winter, a time when the world is often cloaked in cold and darkness, symbolizing hope even during life's most challenging seasons. It reassures us that light would always triumph over darkness, offering a sense of peace and renewal.

Renewal and New Beginnings: Christmas marks a pivotal moment in history that inspires countless individuals each year to embark on journeys of self-discovery and personal growth; to find strength in the promise of new beginnings and the opportunity to reinvent themselves in alignment with their deepest values and aspirations

Humility and simplicity: From humble beginnings, as we celebrate, it's important to remember those who are less fortunate and ensure that our actions reflect the spirit of generosity

and compassion.

Unconditional Love and Grace: This special time of year serves as a powerful lesson in extending grace, kindness, and love to those around us. Whether it's volunteering, donating, or simply offering a warm smile, each gesture is a way to share the true meaning of Christmas with others.

Joy amid Adversity: Amid the challenges and uncertainties of life, Christmas serves as a poignant reminder to seek joy and celebrate the good in our lives.

Peace and Reconciliation: This message invites us to reflect on our lives and relationships, fostering a sense of harmony within ourselves and reaching out to mend any rifts with those around us. It's a reminder to embrace compassion, understanding, and kindness, creating a more peaceful world for all.

Generosity and Giving: During the Christmas season, we are called to give freely and without expectation, whether through material gifts or acts of kindness and compassion.  Embracing this spirit not only honors the traditions of the past but also enriches our own lives and the lives of those around us, creating a ripple effect of joy and gratitude.

— Karen Kelleher, MA

Family Caregiver Support Coordinator at DayBreak

As we celebrate these traditions, let’s embrace the spirit of unity, gratitude, and renewal that this season brings. Wishing you all a joyous and peaceful holiday season!

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