In our hemisphere, the season of winter is the darkest, most yin, most mysterious time of year.  But in the Tao, and in its marvelous symbol, the Tai Chi, the zenith of yin is pierced by a pin-prick of yang.  So into this season of short days and long nights a light is born.

According to Taoist principles, winter is the season when seeds rest and acquire the energy that will fuel their future growth.  Winter is a time for deep meditation and dreaming, and in the Christian tradition, for gathering with loved ones, giving and celebrating the birth of the light of the world.