When The Sun Stands Still: Winter Solstice is Our Poetic Moment
- Laura A. Weber
- 4 hours ago
- 2 min read
"Solstice" is from the Latin - "Sol" (Sun) and "sistere" (to stand still) - when the Sun seems to stand still in its ascending or descending path, and reverse course.
What about us? Are we paying attention to natural cycles that show us how to be still for a moment, and retreat?
As the longest night approaches in late December, an opportunity for soul-stretching is built into our solar system. A sacred Pause.
Japanese Haiku poetry enshrines the Natural. Haiku traditionally features a 5-7-5 rhythmic schema, includes "Kireji" - a "cutting word," and focuses on a natural element that captivates and consoles, challenges and overwhelms. "Kigo" is the term that describes seasonal "moments" captured in Haiku verse. Matsuo Bashō, revered Haiku poet of the 17th c., crafted this eulogy for wintering stillness:
Winter solitude -
In a world of one color
Haiku poetry for spiritual reflection is unparalleled as a medium for going deeper. We can wade in with scant verbiage and feel submerged in wonder. Earth's "dying" in Winter - especially in the midst of the Sixth Mass Extinction - presents a poetic moment for humanity like no other. We are indelibly intertwined with Earth's wounded fragility and stunning beauty. Any moment we can pause to stand still and notice - what's dying, what's being born, what's growing - is a profound gift.
How will we mark Solstice this year? When Earth is in need of humanity to pay attention, this may be our global poetic moment. Won't you join me?
"Winter Solstice"
Luminous Dark Knight
Cloaked in La Bella Luna
Rousing a Virgin
"When Dark Subsides"
Relentless, Night pools
Edgeless, pulsating Dark
Then, a Flood of Hope
"Poetic Moment"
Moon stealth, Sun stands still
Darkening Shroud of Wonder
I Pause in my Depths
Stand Still.
Dream.
Hope.