I was re-reading Elizabeth Moon's The Deed of Paksenarrion trilogy and came to the celebration of Midwinter Night, it seemed appropriate here.
In darkness, in cold, in the midst of winter
where nothing walks the world but death and fear
let the brave rejoice: I call the light.
Out of darkness, light.
Out of silence, song.
Out of the sun's death, the birth of each year.
Out of the cold, fire.
Out of death, life.
Out of fear, courage to see the day.
In darker night, brighter stars.
In greater fear, greater courage.
In the midst of winter, the world's birth.
The pagan me says this sounds good tonight.
