Today marks the winter solstice; the day with the shortest amount of daylight and the longest night. For thousands of years, cultures worldwide have celebrated the winter solstice as a symbol of rebirth. The dawning of a new year, hope, and the future. I consider it fitting that yesterday was my final day of radiation treatment. The terminus of something that was preceded by fear and uncertainty, but became just another step forward on the path of my journey. Each treatment brought me closer to the end and closer to being cancer-free. Closer to the rest of my life.
Today, I am reflecting on the past year which, in many ways has felt like the longest night. And in that long night, there have been dreams. Some lucid, some ambiguous and blurred, some terrifying nightmares. But, through the darkness, there have been brilliant flashes of light; points on the timeline of my life that have brought joy and happiness and peace. I am grateful for all of it. Because without the darkness, I wonder if I would have fully appreciated or even realized the brilliance, though I’d like to think I would have. And I have learned and grown from each lesson, no matter how painful or uncomfortable.
Today, I am focused on the future and the days that lie ahead, looking forward with the eye of my heart. I am letting go of those things that held power over me. I know that better days are coming. I am grateful to be surrounded by people who love and care about me. I am dreaming of a comforting pot roast on a cold January day, the pulse of a river pushing against my oar blades, and the feel of a warm breeze on my face. And, wherever that breeze takes me, there will be full sails and happy trails ahead.
Flight of the Raven 