"The first day of summer 2019 arrives with the solstice on Friday, June 21st at 11:54 a.m.
EDT. For those of us in the Northern Hemisphere, this marks the longest day of the year
and the moment when the Sun reaches the Tropic of Cancer, its highest point."
Farmer's Almanac
The summer solstice is surrounded by folklore, mythology, and various celebrations.
Ancient Druids believed the Summer Solstice marked the marriage of the Earth and the Heavens which prompted weddings to take place in June. In Ancient Egypt, it was the heralding of the arrival of the brightest star, Sirius. China celebrated YIN the feminine side of life during the Summer Solstice and Yang the masculine in winter. The Vikings deemed this time as having great power which generated trade and legal transactions.
Ancient Romans celebrated by honoring the goddess Vesta who was sacred to women and protector of marriage and virginity. Native Americans celebrated with great feasts and dances to honor the sun. The people of Ancient Mesopotamia referred to the Summer Solstice as the 'dead season' with intense heat, disease and famine.
We, too, can celebrate Summer Solstice which showers sun beams to provide for our crops or bodies; increased light to overcome darkness or mind; and offers time for sacred rituals or soul. Mother Earth and the sun provide for us so this is a perfect day to gather and honor the abundance we receive with gratitude.
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