This time between Samhain and Grianstad an Gheimhridh (Winter Solstice, in Irish) is more and more my “cauldron time” — a time of slowing down, a time of deep connection with the land, and a time to contemplate and reset before Father Sun completes his waning cycle and, at Solstice, once again begins to wax and energize.
This poem reminds me that — like the Sunflower — at this time of year, I too am “weary of time” and counting “the steps of the Sun”.
Here is “Ah! Sunflower” by William Blake.
Ah Sun-flower! weary of time, Who countest the steps of the Sun: Seeking after that sweet golden clime Where the travellers journey is done. Where the Youth pined away with desire, And the pale Virgin shrouded in snow: Arise from their graves and aspire, Where my Sun-flower wishes to go.