The longest night

December 21st marks the winter solstice, the longest night of the year.

For centuries, people have gathered on this night.

Ancient civilizations lit bonfires and decorated their homes with green branches. Families came together, made offerings, and asked for winter to pass quickly.

Different traditions, same impulse: to find light in the darkness.

This year, that impulse feels more relevant than ever.

We’ve watched nature remind us how small we are. We’ve felt powerless against forces beyond our control.

The problems we face won’t disappear overnight, and the solutions demand more than we’ve given so far.

But our ancestors understood something we sometimes forget: we’re better when we unite.

Light, balance, and solidarity: these aren’t just nice ideas. They’re how we survive the longest nights.

Whatever you’re celebrating this season, I hope you find warmth. I hope you find your people.

And I hope the light finds its way back to you.

Wishing you peace, health, and happiness in 2026.

Image description: My silhouette in the foreground, framed against a glowing Christmas tree. Thousands of small white lights create a sparkling bokeh effect across the branches, with several large, golden spherical ornaments catching the light.