As we move into the darkest part of the year in the northern hemisphere and the month of the Winter Solstice, I usually find myself struggling with doubt and negative thoughts. Progress toward my goals and aspirations seems to stall and even feel blocked.
I suppose this is why so many cultures have holidays and festivals celebrating light and gathering together with loved ones at this time of year. We need each other’s support to have patience and hope as we wait through long nights for the return of the sun.
In honor of these winter time traditions, I’ve chosen the piece below for the December Sculpture of the Month.
The Magic of Touch
The Magic of Touch speaks about our power to reach out and deeply touch those around us, as well as our own need for support and connection from others.
The “touch” of the wolf magician in this piece seems particularly meaningful and surprising to the prey creature he touches. His typical touch would be a killing one, but instead, his gesture appears to connote reconciliation, or perhaps even the kind touch of a friend.
The characters in the sculpture reflect our notion of the Peaceable Kingdom from the Book of Isaiah in the Bible, which points to the emergence of a Golden Age when enemies are no longer enemies, and “the wolf lays down with the lamb.”
I continue to hope that we are moving our world away from war, despite the national animosities and international hostilities currently occupying our attention. Though the season tempts us to feel hopeless and perhaps even threatened by disturbing events, this sculpture points the way:
Through The Magic of Touch, we can live more gently with each other and all creatures of the Earth.
I hope this sculpture touches your imagination for a world where we can all get along and where no one has to kill or exploit others to make life meaningful.
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