Religion on a photography blog?  Well yes, a little.  First, an important message from the sponsor:  I believe there are many paths to finding a connection with the spirit in your life, and I don’t think there is any one right answer.   Even if there was, I can guarantee you I wouldn’t have it.   ;)  So, read this post knowing I don’t think my way is the only way.  It’s just the one I understand best.

Lately I’ve been thinking about how religious and spiritual ceremonies are often a reflection of  nature’s pacing.  Spring and the message of rebirth.  Fall and the harvest festivals that gather families in celebration of earth’s gifts.  The festivals of light during winter’s darkest days.

Here and now, a Pacific Northwest mid-winter lent.  The days are getting a little lighter; my daughter has spotted the first crocus; an early blooming camellia bush offers hope.  But it’s still frosty cold some mornings.   Last week we had snow and this weekend we might have snow again.  Not quite winter, not quite spring.  In between.  And lent feels in between for me too.  40 days in the wilderness.  Confusion.  Mystery.  A time for self-reflection.  Like a bulb:  still in the darkness, reaching for the light.