As you return home for the holidays, remember that there is no better time than this to indulge in the humble neighborhood walk. Winter is economic in New England. It strips the land bare in parcels, carving off summer until the bones of the earth are revealed. Granite cliffs, stone walls, graves. The countryside stretches in the cold, waiting patiently for New Year’s snow, and for a moment, silence reigns.
With no leaves on the trees, the margins of the world shrink, and you can see how close your neighbors truly are. Homes are no longer hidden by vegetation, their lines become stark and open. Light shines through the early darkness with clarity.
Christmas lights have their origin in 17th-century Germany, when candles would be affixed to Christmas trees and in windows to shed light on the ornaments—a way of saying “look at the pretty things we own”—but they also have a deeper meaning. Tradition suggests these lights represent the star that led the Magi to Christ. They are a reminder to search for goodness in a world temporarily swallowed by darkness.
Although I have never been particularly religious, I can’t help but feel cheered by the symbolism.
These days leading up to Christmas are first and foremost a time for celebration, charity, and joy, but also, reflection. We owe so much thanks to the world around us, especially the places we are from, so don’t waste these early evenings behind the wheel.
Get out and drink in the season on foot.
