Threads of Light

As the year turns...

As the year draws to a close, I want to take a moment to thank you for being part of this reflective space. This year has brought complexity, growth, and opportunities to reimagine what’s possible.

As the Year Turns

Amid the noise of end-of-year narratives, I’ve found solace in grounding myself in smaller, meaningful moments - moments like this. Back in March, an idea that had lingered in my notebook began to take shape and The Thread emerged as a growing community for those working in and around education, offering a seasonal lens to the academic year. What started as a quiet ‘I wonder if…’ has become a special part of my month and my work, in ways I couldn’t have anticipated.

A Threshold

This is landing with you on the eve of the Solstice, (9:19 am on 21 December), which in the Celtic calendar marks the start of Winter. For many it will also mark the close of work and school for the holidays, the moment we tip fully into the holidays.

The Solstice is also a turning point: the dark gently gives way to the gradual return of the light. It’s a natural reminder to pause, appreciate the stillpoint - the balance of light and dark. It’s an invitation to be in the stillness, consider what’s been, what’s emerging, and what’s next.

Building Connection and Strength

For leaders, educators, and reflective practitioners, stillness often sparks new perspectives. The Thread was created for moments like these - a space to foster meaningful conversations and connections that ignite fresh ideas and sustain us in our work.

As you reflect on the year that’s passed, I offer these questions as prompts:

• What threads have you followed this year that have enriched how you spend your time?

• Which connections have supported your growth, and how might you nurture them in the year ahead?

If you’re seeking a community to explore questions like these, I’d love for you to join The Thread. It’s a place to build sustainable change through reflection, connection, and shared purpose. [Learn more here.]

December Podcast Highlights:

This month I enjoyed a seasonal conversation with Liz Thomas of The Honey Bee Sanctuary. Liz shares practical insights on reconnecting with nature through herbs, making herbalism accessible for everyone, and cultivating a deeper connection with the world around us. A grounding and inspiring listen to close the year.

I have 2 thought provoking conversation to share with you in January. I’ll be joined by

Hannah

a writer exploring life’s rhythms through poetry, and Belinda Kirk, an adventurer and advocate for the transformative power of exploration. These episodes promise to offer meaningful insights to guide your journey into the year ahead.

As the Sun Stands Still

So, as the Solstice reminds us to pause, I wish you a restful, joyful break and a hopeful beginning to what’s next. Thank you for all that you bring to this space - it’s been a privilege to connect with you this year and I look forward to reconnecting with you in the months ahead.

Guiding you through the wood, the trees and the spaces in between. Join me each month as I dive into a theme inspired by my work and the conversations I have.