| Karl Duffy Dec 13 | La festa di Santa Lucia. Today is the feastday of Saint Lucia of Syracuse (283–304) a martyr revered for her courage in secretly bringing food to those who were hiding from persecution in the catacombs under Rome. Legend tells us that she wore a crown of candles to light her way so that her hands were free to carry the food. Before the calendar was changed, her feast fell on the shortest day of the year, the Winter Solstice. It is still a big celebration in Nordic countries, marking the turn in winter and the return of light All night my heart makes its way however it can over the rough ground of uncertainties, but only until night meets and then is overwhelmed by morning, the light deepening, the wind easing and just waiting, as I too wait (and when have I ever been disappointed?) for redbird to sing. Mary Oliver, A Thousand Mornings | | | | You can also reply to this email to leave a comment. | | | | |