The holidays are upon us.  Accompanying them is the longest night of the year before the days begin to lengthen and the sun returns.

The solstice has been celebrated as a time of renewal and rebirth for centuries, when people would gather branches into their homes to remind them of the eventual return of green, looking forward to spring. They also lit candles against the long, dark night to beckon the sun.

These days many get caught up in other winter celebrations – but still many bring a tree into their house and wrap it in bright lights. Others light the Menorah, a ceremonial seven-branched candelabrum of the Jewish Temple symbolizing the seven days of creation.

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However we choose to celebrate the holidays, most of us still gather with our loved ones in the darkest and coldest time of the year, and look forward to what the New Year will bring. Along with the wonder of what will come, we make intentions. Some of the more general one’s openly shared are:

1. Be more patient.
2. Open my heart and mind.
3. Practice being non-judgmental of others and myself.
4. Choose to be happy.
5. Minimize stress.
6. Practice quieting my mind.
7. Do – NOW – some of those things I’ve been saying I will do when . . . . .

Whatever your intentions are, the first step to realizing change is the awareness that change is desired. Then, to take that awareness forward and chip away at the resistance encountered along the way.

I asked an acquaintance of mine who was competing in the International Windsurfing Competition on Maui

what her greatest challenge was—the wind, high surf, the other participants? She responded, “I first have to get my mind on board. Then, I just do my best.” She said she had taken first place for years now. She did this year as well, even with a serious foot injury.

I intend to remember her words “NOW” and throughout the coming year. Whatever you forecast for 2015, I wish you the awareness to let the mind be your servant, not your master.

Have a wonderful Holiday Season!