Here in the Western Hemisphere we have just passed through the Summer Solstice, the longest day and shortest night of the year. I so enjoy the two Solstices of the year, the winter and summer opposites of light and dark. I feel as if I am passing through a doorway, the turning of the wheel of the year, the movement of planets and of the universe. I went on a nature walk to ground myself to connect with my feet on the earth. Here in California where my Chumash ancestors have lived for thousands of years, I seek out native plants which grow on the coast of this land. A favorite is the California Poppy, a native plant cousin to us, used by us, the indigenous people for food and a mild sedative and painkiller. Their brilliant orange petals shining like the sun are for me the embodiment of the summer solstice. Kakunupmawa, the sun in the sky, we honor you as the Earth sings your song in flowers.
