We gather together as the wheel of the year turns, to feel deep into our connections of spiritual family and honor the light within.

With our hearts full of gratitude and our eyes to what's next, we take a moment to share breath in the presence of spirit, to express our gratitude to the elements and to connect within and without as we approach the longest night of the year.

Kanaka Maoli (Native Hawaiians) recognize Makahiki as a form of the "first fruits" festivals common to many cultures. Makahiki season is a four-month period of the year, beginning with the first sighting on the horizon of the Makali`i, or the constellation Pleiades, in late October or early November. When the winter solstice or Ke Ao Polohiwa a Kanaloa transpires, it is the middle of Makahiki season. We acknowledge the sun's farthest journey into the underworld or the realm of Kanaloa.…