glitter and saffron

A Christmas of glitter, hugs, saffron and chocolates. A thick candle flickering its light towards a distant horizon. Books. Chattering people and a feeling of future.

I wore something glittery red and chattered almost as much as the others.

Now I take walks in silent, dark woods where all life is asleep. I look at lit windows and let snow and rain fall on my face. I long for light and find a sleepy peace in the darkness.

I'm not sure I did this year right but I think I did my best.

on this very Christmas night

It is a deep dark night that swirls around our northern lands.

It tastes of cold, gingerbread and woodsmoke. It smells of snow travelling towards us. It has hyacinths, lights that twinkle and people who just want to sleep.

I'm tired in body and soul, and yet every song makes me dance. My God is on his way to save me.

This night
we pray
our lives
will show
this dream
he had
each child
still knows 
we are waiting
we have not forgotten
on this night
on this night
on this very Christmas night

(words from The United Orchestra's "Christmas Canon")