As we navigate the turbulent waters of these challenging times, our hearts often bear the weight of sorrow, grief, and the overwhelming suffering that surrounds us. In such moments, may we find solace in the approaching winter season, which brings with it a tapestry of faith traditions, ceremonies, and practices. These age-old rituals serve as guiding lights, reminding us of the enduring goodness and truth that reside within the human spirit.
Winter, both in nature and in our lives, carries profound symbolism. It speaks to us of stillness, darkness, and the potential for inner reflection. It invites us to slow down, to turn inward, and to rekindle our connection with the divine. Winter beckons us to remember our natural rhythm, one that knows only communion with the sacred.
In the midst of these tumultuous times, returning to our innate state of communion becomes an act of reclamation. It is a journey to re-member our wholeness, to knit together the fragments of our souls, and to embrace the Divine within and around us.
To fully embrace the winter season and receive its gifts, we must first sanctify this time in our lives. Make it sacred, set it apart from the relentless pace of the world. Creating this sacred space allows us to prepare ourselves for the transformational and grace filled journey that winter offers.
Even in the darkest of times, there are treasures to be found. Winter is a reminder that light can emerge from the ashes of destruction, offering inspiration and guidance.
It's crucial for you and I to understand that our liberation depends on our willingness to slow down and get still, even in the midst of crises and destruction. By creating space for stillness and reflection, we allow the wisdom within us to speak and guide us. This wisdom and guidance holds our liberation and freedom from suffering.
Returning to our soul's solitude isn't always easy, nor does it always feel good. We encounter our inner complexities—the good, the bad, and the ugly. Yet, within the safe haven of solitude, we confront these truths, our motivations, our addictions, and our coping mechanisms. When we bring our pain and suffering into this sacred space, we make room for grace and healing. In this honest surrender and offering of our naked pain we allow ourselves to be broken open and held by the great mystery. When we do this it’s what allows us to emerge as more resilient and compassionate beings.
As we journey through these weeks of winter, my hope is that you will find solace, strength, and profound communion with the Divine. May you embrace this season of rest, reflection, and renewal with an open heart. Let us remember that, just like winter, life too is a tapestry of paradoxes—moments of joy interwoven with those of sorrow, and beauty coexisting with pain.
May your winter communion renew you to your whole true nature so that you may bring your authentic self in service to the urgency of our times.
With warmth and light,
Rev. Amani
Join Rev. Amani in retreat on January 1 to commune and welcome the power of grace into your life so that you may be held and restored to your whole true nature.
to learn more and register: Returning To Grace
