In the bleak midwinter...

In the cold days of January, we do what we have done since long, long ago. Craving light, we huddle round the fire and light candles. In the warmth of our homes, we play games and do handwork, like jigsaw puzzles and knitting.

We also take time to think of our friends, to write and receive letters in the old way.

These are the special things about this cold season when life slows down. This feeling of slow stillness is a wonderful counterpoint to the frantic pace of life most of us live today.

Before we know it, we'll be gearing up again. The dawdling days that winter permitted will recede as we speed up and speed up again.