In a social media post that highlights a sense of community and self-care during the darker days of winter, the Saint Paul Parks and Recreation encouraged embracing light both metaphorically and literally. As the city embraces the winter solstice, the shortest day of the year, local officials took to the downtown area early Saturday morning to capture photos of holiday lights for their Wellness Wednesday campaign. The excursion transformed into an exploratory journey, bringing to light decorations and artworks that had seemingly gone unnoticed by the team before. "It was a really beautiful and humbling experience," as noted by the Saint Paul Parks and Recreation.
The original intention behind the post was to discuss the inward reflection and rest that often accompanies the seasonal shift, acknowledging that the winter solstice can prompt feelings of loneliness or grief for some. Instead, the Saint Paul Parks team found themselves, following the unplanned adventure downtown, advocating for an intentional search for positivity. "We saw that when we intentionally slow down and look for positive things, a brighter and warmer world can open up to us," the post stated, reflecting on the morning's spontaneous events.
As the solstice approaches, the department extended their wishes for a joyful season to the community. With a photo of a warmly lit circular structure at Rice Park, complete with a bench and a red sign proclaiming "Be the Light," they emphasized their message of hope and exploration. "So, whether you choose to turn inward and embrace the darkness, reach outward and embody the lightness, or pendulate between the two, we wish you a joyous solstice and a season full of light, love, and exploration!" the Saint Paul Parks and Recreation concluded in the post.
