The Turn of the Year

By Helen Parker

If you’re anything like me, the last few weeks have passed in a blur, as we plunge headfirst into the festive season. Every year, despite my best intentions, my days are filled with choosing last minute gifts, shopping, and trying to fit in as many nights out as possible. Our diaries are full, bank accounts emptying at an alarming rate and everything seems to demand our attention all at once.

And of course, December is often a month of constant eating and drinking. Meals out, mince pies, mulled wine, and that big tub of Celebrations.  All because its Christmas.  No wonder we enter the new year feeling fed up,b oth literally and metaphorically and totally burnt out.  Staring down the barrel of a brand new year feeing fat, skint and miserable.

And amidst it all, the Winter Solstice arrives, practically unnoticed. No celebrations or fanfare, and yet it marks one of the most significant turning points in the wheel of the year. The shortest day and the longest night. Something our ancestors would be well and truly tuned into. For them, this time of year was not a festival of excess. They knew that from that point forward, the light would slowly return. It wouldn’t come back all at once .  This was a time to conserve energy. Long nights filled with telling stories and trusting that life would endure.

As the festive season approaches, may we also carry that same hope in our hearts. Amidst the noise, the parties, the full glasses and the  groaning plates of food, may we remember the deeper meaning of the season. Togetherness, generosity, and hope for the future.

As we turn towards 2026, may the returning light guide us. Finding balance rather than excess. Our homes warm and our gatherings filled with joy and love. Presence over presents. May we leave hope and space for those who come after us, just as our ancestors did for us. 

 May the turning year bring kindness and hope to all.