Prayer #119: Sol Patch

1. "Sol + stice derives from a combination of Latin words meaning "sun" + "to stand still." As the days lengthen, the sun rises higher and higher until it seems to stand still in the sky."

2. "The Summer Solstice was thought to be a time of magic. If evil spirits appeared, then they were thwarted by a plant called 'chase-devil.' Today, this plant is known as St. John's Wort, and it is used as a mood stabilizer."

3. "The iron tongue of midnight hath told twelve;
Lovers, to bed; 'tis almost fairy time."
A Midsummer Night's Dream, 5. 1

Prayer #119: Sol Patch

Summer brings its own hot madness, makes you sticky, catches you between restless and reckless.

Summer blinds you with too much light. What should be illuminated washes out instead, and the dark corners you so carefully guard stay just as hidden as before.

But when the celestial hinge squeaks just right, and a scorching run of hours rushes the earth, you are left with little choice: Turn your face to what you've shoved aside, and burn those corners with insistent fire.

Lord, if the sun in its endless swing can stand still for a day and survey its universe, then surely I can stand still for a moment and examine my conscience. And for that purpose alone, let me join the sun at that slim point above the horizon where it does not rise, does not set, but simply watches, eager to catch truth through the dancing flames.

Amen.