Happy holidays

Of all the events marked by ritual, I think that the long descent into night is amongst the most important to me. Truth is I've never really adapted to the northern climate; each and every year I genuinely wonder if I'll make it through the winter. Sure, there are moments of exquisite pleasure that only snowy days offer--like now--but it's just so bloody bleak most of the time that all I can do is endure. Nonetheless, I've learned that patience is indeed a virtue and alongside the pain, there can be a lot of pleasure in tests of endurance. Some of it comes from the satisfaction of emerging safe and sound on the other side, but along the way there's also the simple gratitude that comes with learning who your true friends are, and the gentle joy that comes with surrendering to the situation.

Fellow northerners, may your light burn bright on this longest of nights--and may everyone find peace and joy in the coming year.

Update: Old Soviet Christmas card collection (via)