Welcome 2026. Now Please be Quiet.

I’m writing this post in that sometimes-quiet space between Christmas Day and New Year’s Eve, when the presents have been unwrapped, too much food already consumed, and the idea of one more social engagement might put me right over the edge. I’m still listening to soft holiday music – Celtic instrumental holiday music to be specific – while trying to curb my love of cookies because my body is beginning to rebel. And I just want to stay home for a bit. 

There was a post by a friend on Facebook a couple of days ago that asked how many of us wished we did not have to play by our normal rules of engagement – whether it’s a job or family/social events that require our presence – and could just rest in the winter. Even in the midst of holiday cheer, that question lingered in me. I love the holidays, love hosting people and cooking and wrapping gifts and lighting candles and raising a glass. But rest – I find myself wishing for it more than in years past. That may be because I’m older or it may have more to do with the state of the world being the most exhausting it’s ever been. I would love to stay home for New Year’s Eve, but Mick’s band has a gig and that’s where I’ll be. And I do enjoy hearing Mick’s saxophone play the notes of Auld Lang Syne at midnight.

Going into 2026, though, brings me back to the question of rest in the winter. It nudges me to think, once again, about what I want in my life moving forward. A better balance of quiet alongside other activities I love might top the list. Quiet is what allows me to be creative, read, rest, see what’s in front of me. It allows me to notice what’s going on with the people around me instead of rushing past them. It opens the space for better connection. 

This past year was more challenging and battered us all more than any of us imagined, and that’s even after acknowledging that it was going to be a beast of a year. If it did us any favors at all, one favor might be that it clarified what we can stand up for as well as stand up to. It begged us to see things as they are and respond accordingly. Responding requires a well-rested body. And that requires quiet.

I’ve always loved the quiet of winter. This winter, I’m burrowing into it with a fuzzy blanket, tea, books, and the last of the holiday lights glowing in the background.

Happy New Year. Let’s hope it’s a good one.

Photo by kcmickelson 2026