The Gift of Winter Stillness

Afternoon Walk in the Reservoir — Photo by Susan Izard

Dear Soul Friends,

It’s officially winter in New England. It’s cold, snowy, and icy. Early last week, bitter winds whipped across hilltops and blew through the fabric of my warmest coat, making my daily walk more of an endurance test than a joyful hike. But one day the wind stopped and a hush settled over the neighborhood. Even the hawks perched on bare tree branches whispered a message of stillness. For a moment, Mother Earth invited me to the gift of winter serenity and calm.

I love the gray light of winter that outlines the earth. It’s so different from the vibrant colors in my summer garden but equally as inviting. It’s a time for hibernation and reflection, hot tea and a good book, quiet mornings for writing and listening to peaceful music. 

I begin each morning by praying a prayer by Celtic teacher John O’Donohue titled Matins from his beautiful book Benedictus: A Book of Blessings. It reminds me to keep my heart open to the blessings of life and open my eyes to the glory around me. It reminds me that Holy Presence dwells in the silence and stillness of our hearts and in our soul’s home. I never get tired of this prayer. Each day something touches my soul and centers me. Today the first lines of the second stanza of the prayer spoke to the stillness of the day.

I arise today

In the name of Silence,

Womb of the Word,

In the name of Stillness,

Home of Belonging,

In the name of the Solitude 

Of the Soul and the Earth.

I invite you to take a minute to quietly re-read the prayer and then rest your eyes on the photo above. Be still. Quiet your phone and your mind. There is plenty of time later today to think about all that needs to get done. For a moment, let your soul soak in the image. Let your heart hear the words of blessing. Notice what you see and how you feel. Rest. Listen for the invitation of the silence. 

May your quiet stillness be blessed by the gift of peace.

Deep peace to you,

Susan