Waiting for the moon
Actually, I am staying up late tonight to see the full lunar eclipse on this Solstice Eve.
I have until 3:00 am to wait for the moon, what a perfect opportunity to wish everyone a Happy Solstice and share images from the SWS Solstice Celebration on Friday, December 17th:
The Moon Ritual in the Art Studio
Singing and tent raising in room 12
The drama and expertise of cookin’ panakes, waffles, bacon, sausage and more…
and quiet moments,
even the stuffed animals took some quiet time in the beds made by kindergarteners.
As I reflect on the SWS Solstice Celebration, and await the full Lunar Eclipse this evening, I am struck once again by the affect of wonder in our lives, young and old.
(First snow in DC happened during school last week)
“Wisdom Begins in Wonder” -Socrates
Wonder and creativity often get discounted in education, especially public education. I recently wrote a short essay as a guest blog. Here it is, Picking up feathers, and other thoughts on creativity by Marla McLean.
On the eve of the longest night of the year, I am filled with gratitude and hope. The problems and despair in the world are overwhelming. It is not too hard to get swallowed by the darkness. Somehow witnessing wonder (in whatever form) diminishes the fear.
I thank all my “teachers” of 2010. They came in the form of young children, co-workers, friends, family, SWS family, bloggers, my college students from the Corcoran, my studio mates, the teachers and admins in Lima, Peru.
They also came in the form of rain and snow, sparrows, squirrels, my dog, mountains, oceans, and the rainbow swirl of oil found on asphalt during a city summer. Books, music, art, and the kindness of strangers. The great energy of Washington DC and Silver Spring. Both mistakes and discoveries were my teachers, as well as discomfort, frustration and contentment.
A rock, a beam of light, a feather.
If it’s possible to see the sun and moon align this evening on the Winter Solstice (the first since Dec 21st 1632!), I imagine it’s possible to wonder all types of possibilities right into existence.
Happy Solstice and Happy New Year to all.