In the Warmth of Each Other's Hearts

The first official Groundhog Day celebration took place in 1887, in Punxsutawney, Pennsylvania. But, before that, the ritual was known as Candlemas, a day on which Christians brought candles to church to be blessed – a sign of a source of light and warmth for winter. In parts of Europe, people believed that a sunny Candlemas meant another 40 days of cold and snow.
“Chekhov saw the long winter, bleak and dark and bereft of hope. Yet, winter is just a step in the cycle of life. Being here with you in the warmth of your heart, I can’t imagine a better fate than a long and lustrous winter.” - Phil Connors, “Groundhog Day” (the film)
Affirmative prayer: Today, I recognize the truth of my being, of all beings, that pure Spirit is the essence of life in every form, every reflection, everything. I look to the brightness of this day, and welcome infinite blessings, the miracle of goodness in every season. Thank you, God, forever. Amen.

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