Snow this time of the year, be it a bit or a blizzard, melts and freezes in quickly cycling patterns making exotic light shows each morning with the tardy sun’s emergence. Bushes hold up the ice offerings and if we’re really lucky there is a variety of textures in twig and leaf. Frost adds an extra sparkle that I truly love.
Holly lends an extra visual style with spiked deep green leaves said to represent a spirit of prosperity and focused strength. It is also said to remind us to believe in ourselves and to connect with our inner strength as we move through difficult times in our life. By knowing that everything eventually comes full-circle we can see the potential that lies ahead.
Druids believed Holly possesses protective qualities, such as guarding against evil spirits and bad luck. Legend has it that bringing the leaves inside during the winter months would provide shelter from the cold for fairies, who in return would be kind to those who lived in the dwelling.
A year ago I took a photo of the sun drenched ice in mid winter. Now, looking back over the year just closing, I am feeling the same wonderment, clarity, and even excited apprehension that the photo first prompted.
In honor of this year passing and anticipating the year to come, I painted the light in the photo of that day. I added Holly to represent the strength and confidence to face this coming year with joy and not fear; the leaves to lend resilience and red berries for a spark of color.
Merry Christmas and peace and light to you all in the year ahead.
Kelly E. James 