Here in the Northern Hemisphere, our time spent in literal darkness continues to lengthen as we begin the transition into winter. Our bodies know this at a cellular level, whether or not our minds and calendars will accept it. Many plants are becoming dormant to store up energy for new growth. Many animals (humans included) are changing their behavior, location, and appearance accordingly.

In Native: Identity, Belonging, and Rediscovering God, Kaitlin Curtice writes, “It is the lie, since the beginning,that we are made to be alone. We are not only made for community within our own species – we belong to all the creatures of the earth, our kin.” This resonates with what Pr. Janet shared on October 17 about ourfaith tradition’s second creation story in Genesis 2. Curtice continues, “If we are people called to keepwatch, that means we are people called to keep care, to pay attention. It is about more than just recycling; it is about a stance toward the earth of humility and eagerness to learn, because everything around us has a story to tell and a sacred life to be lived” (p. 129).

Practice and Reflection:

You’re invited to pay attention this week to a particular plant or animal or ecosystem near you. It may be a tree or animal outside your window, a plant on your patio, a garden, or a river or forest you frequent. It may be you. What do you notice about its response to the lengthening darkness and colder days? What story do you sense it telling us? Is there a question or lesson in there for you? Perhaps it simply is.