Today is the darkest day

Today is the Winter Solstice, also known by some as "the shortest day of the year" because it is the day with the least amount of sunlight. But ask anyone in a mentally dark place, and they will tell you the "darkest day" feels anything but short. Often, it isn't limited to a 24-hour period of time. And sometimes it can even feel as if it will be neverending. 

The holidays are notorious for ushering in some of the darkest days for many people, despite (and possibly because of) the cultural directives for jolliness. But, of course, the "darkest day" can happen any time. If you're living that "darkest day" right now, I really want you to know that I see you and that I care about you. Your struggle is real, and I know it feels all-consuming. The cultural expectations for being merry at this time of year are ridiculous and unfair, and it's okay if you aren't feeling merry or jolly or full of joy.

Here's the other message I want to share with you: Yes, this is the darkest day, BUT that means all the days after this will have a little more light than this one. You probably won't experience it as a flood of light. It may not even really seem noticeable at first. But it won't get darker than this. Each day will bring just a little more light. Please seek that light, no matter how small and insignificant it may seem. And please reach out to me if you need to borrow some light to get you through this darkest day.