I absolutely love your writing. Your entries are packed with so many wonderful things to learn about. The way you link your words together is artful, inspiring, and mending. I feel blessed to be touched by your magic.
Good morning, Jesse. I just saw this post, and I would love to be included on Thursday evening for the gathering. I look forward to receiving the link and joining what I’m sure will be a very special experience. ♥️
I have a long standing default of ignoring my intuition, so I appreciate the prompt to practice that awareness. Pondering on the concept of openings (specifically the door metaphor), my 2023 has been a series of doors flinging themselves open. Some of my doors have been pounded on for decades, to the point that I was completely numb to the constant background Jumanji beating sound. It felt safer not to see what knocks so eagerly.
My loudest door burst open last March. I realized I’m gay. It’s a bit complicated because I’m married (to a man) with a young child. The grief is interlaced with every aspect of my life’s structure and at odds with gratitude to have my son. I’ve been poisoning myself for decades ignoring it; the antidote burns something wicked. Please share any your musical antidotes.
I explored a bit of I Ching Divination this past year. While perhaps this will not translate accurately from authentic practice, the I ching hexagram 10 transforming into 27 means one is currently treading a dangerous path but with luck, and leading to harmonious nourishment. God, I hope so.
I’m excited to join your Substack! And join in some writing exercises. Just curious about “1027”? Is there anything you can share about how that came to be your favorite? Completely understanding how these things can be private and personal too. One of my favs is 47 and 31. They are significant from my Navy days, and have revealed added significance over the years. All Best Wishes!
What a remarkable post. So very evocative. I am sorry to be a day late, I work nights and work took up my time last night during the Solstice. I was particularly impressed by the whole "1027" part - just fascinating. I love the idea of the Solstice as being an opening - a portal to a realm of new beginnings.
We're about ten minutes away! This year, the Solstice's promise of the return of the light seems as important and auspicious as New Year's Eve usually does. Thank you for these words and these suggestions--I'm looking forward to writing about this and seeing what emerges. Already, after my church's Solstice service, the word and concept of connection is really resonating with me. This is certainly something I hope to see on my horizon.
Wow! I started writing at 10:27, and just now looked up to see that nearly half an hour has passed with my pen steadily moving. Solstice inspiration! This past year has been about clearing space and reclaiming time. I would like this next year to be about creativity and connection. To more light, y’all!
Ohh this is really the best - it makes me so happy. Thank you so very much for sharing these thoughts. I would love to hear more about what you're thinking around 'connection,' and any lines or thoughts that felt good to write on paper tonight. <3
I wrote that connecting begins with connecting with myself, and identifying my own priorities. (This past year has been about identifying my values--these can help guide my priorities. I wrote, You can't put everything on the front burners. But back burners work, too. And cookie dough and bread dough that spend time in the refrigerator develop more flavor.")
About connection, I wrote, "I reach out to others a lot. I want to spend time listening and looking for those who are reaching out to me."
(Listening was a big theme in my writing last night.)
Hi Jesse... Happy Winter Solstice to you and our little community. I really love winter. I always have. I love the idea of curly up and reading a book or having a chat with someone on the phone. I also like to journal. Every night I write in my gratitude journal. There is always something to be grateful for. Most days I start by saying I'm grateful for another day! I will be writing in my journal at 10:27 and see where my pen takes me. Looking forward to Janaury 4th...
This is so wonderful <3 I hope you had some peaceful and clear 10:27 solstice journaling. I would love to know what thoughts arose tonight. Sending good thoughts to you :)))
Dec 22, 2023·edited Dec 22, 2023Liked by Jesse Paris Smith
The Elizabeth Street Garden is such a beautiful and magical place. So happy to know that you are celebrating the solstice again there tonight. A wonderful place to gather in any season. Post more pics! 🕯️
Ohh yay, it was once again so very special. I had chills through my whole body walking up the street and hearing the faint bells in the distance. I was so happy to see the statues and trees with their twinkling fairy lights again :)
I can feel tonight's darkness already arriving, and it is our plan to have a bonfire tonight to light up our little parcel of the world; it is going to be very cold tonight! There looks to be a half-moon riding high in the late afternoon sky, it's chasing the sun to the western horizon. I must blanket my wee donkey and the tinier goat so that they will be warmer in their stall tonight after their warm mash and fresh, warm water. Have a good night welcoming the Winter Solstice!
This was such an amazing visual I could see so clearly in my mind reading your words. I love thinking about this tonight. Thank you ! Happy Solstice and Happy Winter ahead :)
Bundle up, very cold weather tonight, crystal clear skies. Love the intention to write and the willingness to share the magic and wonder that you clearly invite into your life and bring to ours.
For me, the winter solstice, the day with the most darkness, is a time where we are reminded that we must create our own light in the world, and be that light with those we love.
I first crossed your path when you stepped in on Piano during your mother’s performance of Dancing Barefoot at the Lincoln Theater a few blocks from my home in DC, Jesse. It’s been a journey since in a distant orbit...inspired by the generosity your family has been demonstrating over the course of the past century or so.
What’s being woven is yet to be determined...but weave we do!
Thank you for including Joseph's words. Before I read on, my plan for later this evening is to string sparkling lights upon the Christmas tree with my daughter.
Good Evening, Jesse
I absolutely love your writing. Your entries are packed with so many wonderful things to learn about. The way you link your words together is artful, inspiring, and mending. I feel blessed to be touched by your magic.
Apples & Sunshine & Love
Good morning, Jesse. I just saw this post, and I would love to be included on Thursday evening for the gathering. I look forward to receiving the link and joining what I’m sure will be a very special experience. ♥️
Hi Jesse, It’s a pleasure to see your writings.
I have a long standing default of ignoring my intuition, so I appreciate the prompt to practice that awareness. Pondering on the concept of openings (specifically the door metaphor), my 2023 has been a series of doors flinging themselves open. Some of my doors have been pounded on for decades, to the point that I was completely numb to the constant background Jumanji beating sound. It felt safer not to see what knocks so eagerly.
My loudest door burst open last March. I realized I’m gay. It’s a bit complicated because I’m married (to a man) with a young child. The grief is interlaced with every aspect of my life’s structure and at odds with gratitude to have my son. I’ve been poisoning myself for decades ignoring it; the antidote burns something wicked. Please share any your musical antidotes.
I explored a bit of I Ching Divination this past year. While perhaps this will not translate accurately from authentic practice, the I ching hexagram 10 transforming into 27 means one is currently treading a dangerous path but with luck, and leading to harmonious nourishment. God, I hope so.
I’m excited to join your Substack! And join in some writing exercises. Just curious about “1027”? Is there anything you can share about how that came to be your favorite? Completely understanding how these things can be private and personal too. One of my favs is 47 and 31. They are significant from my Navy days, and have revealed added significance over the years. All Best Wishes!
What a remarkable post. So very evocative. I am sorry to be a day late, I work nights and work took up my time last night during the Solstice. I was particularly impressed by the whole "1027" part - just fascinating. I love the idea of the Solstice as being an opening - a portal to a realm of new beginnings.
Happy Winter Solstice ❄️✨
We're about ten minutes away! This year, the Solstice's promise of the return of the light seems as important and auspicious as New Year's Eve usually does. Thank you for these words and these suggestions--I'm looking forward to writing about this and seeing what emerges. Already, after my church's Solstice service, the word and concept of connection is really resonating with me. This is certainly something I hope to see on my horizon.
Wow! I started writing at 10:27, and just now looked up to see that nearly half an hour has passed with my pen steadily moving. Solstice inspiration! This past year has been about clearing space and reclaiming time. I would like this next year to be about creativity and connection. To more light, y’all!
Ohh this is really the best - it makes me so happy. Thank you so very much for sharing these thoughts. I would love to hear more about what you're thinking around 'connection,' and any lines or thoughts that felt good to write on paper tonight. <3
I wrote that connecting begins with connecting with myself, and identifying my own priorities. (This past year has been about identifying my values--these can help guide my priorities. I wrote, You can't put everything on the front burners. But back burners work, too. And cookie dough and bread dough that spend time in the refrigerator develop more flavor.")
About connection, I wrote, "I reach out to others a lot. I want to spend time listening and looking for those who are reaching out to me."
(Listening was a big theme in my writing last night.)
Thank you again!
Hi Jesse... Happy Winter Solstice to you and our little community. I really love winter. I always have. I love the idea of curly up and reading a book or having a chat with someone on the phone. I also like to journal. Every night I write in my gratitude journal. There is always something to be grateful for. Most days I start by saying I'm grateful for another day! I will be writing in my journal at 10:27 and see where my pen takes me. Looking forward to Janaury 4th...
This is so wonderful <3 I hope you had some peaceful and clear 10:27 solstice journaling. I would love to know what thoughts arose tonight. Sending good thoughts to you :)))
The Elizabeth Street Garden is such a beautiful and magical place. So happy to know that you are celebrating the solstice again there tonight. A wonderful place to gather in any season. Post more pics! 🕯️
Ohh yay, it was once again so very special. I had chills through my whole body walking up the street and hearing the faint bells in the distance. I was so happy to see the statues and trees with their twinkling fairy lights again :)
✨
I can feel tonight's darkness already arriving, and it is our plan to have a bonfire tonight to light up our little parcel of the world; it is going to be very cold tonight! There looks to be a half-moon riding high in the late afternoon sky, it's chasing the sun to the western horizon. I must blanket my wee donkey and the tinier goat so that they will be warmer in their stall tonight after their warm mash and fresh, warm water. Have a good night welcoming the Winter Solstice!
This was such an amazing visual I could see so clearly in my mind reading your words. I love thinking about this tonight. Thank you ! Happy Solstice and Happy Winter ahead :)
Thank you Jesse. Wishing you love , light and hope in abundance on this Winter Solstice night ! ⭐️
Bundle up, very cold weather tonight, crystal clear skies. Love the intention to write and the willingness to share the magic and wonder that you clearly invite into your life and bring to ours.
Saludos! The best to you in this endeavor.
For me, the winter solstice, the day with the most darkness, is a time where we are reminded that we must create our own light in the world, and be that light with those we love.
Happy solstice, Jesse!
I first crossed your path when you stepped in on Piano during your mother’s performance of Dancing Barefoot at the Lincoln Theater a few blocks from my home in DC, Jesse. It’s been a journey since in a distant orbit...inspired by the generosity your family has been demonstrating over the course of the past century or so.
What’s being woven is yet to be determined...but weave we do!
Thank you for including Joseph's words. Before I read on, my plan for later this evening is to string sparkling lights upon the Christmas tree with my daughter.
Ohh thank you Mama, that will be the best. I can't wait <3 <3 <3