A Prayer for Reconnection
Love, forgiveness, and the unexpected return
Last year, on December 24—my father’s and my birthday—I set out on my annual hike through the hills behind my childhood home.
It was my second birthday without my father, and I was beginning to blend old rituals with new ones, balancing the sorrow of his absence with the joy of celebrating both his life and mine.
With each step, I revisited old memories and created new ones until I reached the familiar slope beneath the towering walnut tree.
As the sun's final rays ignited the sky, painting the horizon in hues of gold and pink, I sat rooted like the tree, my tear-streaked cheeks absorbing the fading twilight, and made a wish.
I spoke aloud to my father, praying for love, healing, and guidance in restoring a broken relationship.
I released my wish into the universe and let go of any attachment to the outcome.
Months passed. One person left my life, and the one I had whispered for entered.
I stood at the crossroads of two truths: deeply sad, lost, and afraid in the wake of one loss, yet filled with awe, gratitude, and appreciation for the return of another.
This duality is a testament to the richness of life and the beauty that can emerge, even in the darkest moments.
Endings give birth to new beginnings, and beginnings inevitably lead to endings. The loss of one person created space for the arrival of another.
Life isn’t black and white; it lives in the spaces in between. When we release our need for control and surrender to the unknown, healing and magic take root.
Looking back on that moment, I saw a courageous and vulnerable woman, longing for love, connection, forgiveness, and second chances. A woman who prayed for the walls between her and someone she cherished to crumble, exposing the illusion of separation, leaving only love.
In our shared humanity and heartache, we are more alike than we are different. This universal experience connects us, reminding us of the healing power of love and connection.
When we let go of our rigid beliefs, we open space for grace, helping us return to what truly matters.
When we make space for mystery, we open the door to unexpected blessings.
Through loss, we create fertile ground for something new to emerge.
What is your wish this holiday season?
What do you truly desire—love, connection, healing?
Can you speak from a place of love and authenticity, releasing the attachment to when or how it will unfold?
I invite you to pause and reflect. Release your grip on how things "should" be.
Plant your seeds of intention, and let them grow at their own pace. The universe will be ready to reveal its answers in its own time.
A Day of Darkness and Rest
As we approach the Winter Solstice, December 21, 2024, the longest night of the year, I wanted to share the latest Golden Yarrow newsletter which spoke to my heart—on the themes of winter, grief, and navigating the darkness.
Taylor offers beautiful solstice spells and even a nourishing stew recipe. I’m passing along her insights and the solstice magic, hoping that it brings you what you need right now. Take what resonates.
Inspiration for a New Year
My dear friend Raina Jung has the beautiful Your Daily Reminder – 2025 Calendar in her Stille Shop. This calendar is a lovely way to bring intention, reflection, and inspiration to your year, with stunning photography and journaling prompts to help you reconnect with nature, the seasons, and yourself.
Wishing you love, rest, and the magic of the season.
With warmth and gratitude,
Dina
A slice of beautiful writing to start my day. Thank you, Dina. ❤️