Summer Solstice is the first day of summer and the longest day of the year. Today, summer solstice is in the northern hemisphere. The word comes from Latin origins with ‘Sol” meaning sun and “sistere” meaning to stand still. For many, this day is simply about ushering in the days of summer. For others it is a pagan day of worship. For scientists, it is the time when Earth’s north-south axis is tilted “23.5 degrees” in relation to the sun. It’s also the day of the year when the North Pole is closest to the sun. For residents in the southern hemisphere, this is the shortest day of the year or winter solstice.
Some of the biggest news today is of the Stonehenge celebration. Most of the people who attend are new agers and neo pagans. According to Thousands flock to Stonehenge for summer solstice, about “20,000 people” congregated at the famous site to welcome the sunrise at 4:52 a.m. During the night before the celebration, there were 15 arrests made for minor disorderly conduct. The day was very clear and it was a nice sunrise for all. During the previous year, 36,500 people had attended that lead to disarray. In 1985, there was a conflict, deemed the Battle of Beanfield, when police ambushed about 600 travelers on their way to Stonehenge. As indicated by a guardian article, the police thought the travelers had weapons and were going to cause destruction. A violent struggle ensued and many were arrested. For those who celebrate the day, this is an infamous day in history. Police continue to have a presence at the event to make sure everyone remains peaceful.
Another important news story is the push for solar energy. Market Watch reports that more Americans want solar energy. In fact, “67 percent of Americans” are open to paying more money for utility bills if more “renewable energy” was being used. In light of the current state of the economy, this is interesting. Perhaps people are more open to this after the BP oil spill disaster. For whatever the reasons, clean energy seems to be becoming more popular.
As for summer solstice, I don’t really celebrate it. Still, I’m going to take advantage of the glorious sunshine and spend most of the day outside today. As far as summer solstice being a pagan holiday only, believers can rejoice in the fact that God created everything, including the sun.
And God said, “Let there be light,” and there was light. Genesis 1:3
Sources:
Anand Chatterjee Summer Solstice 2010: Longest day in the northern hemisphere today ganpatinews.com
Thousands flock to Stonehenge for summer solstice .telegraph.co.uk
Summer Solstice Survey Shows U.S. Consumers Want More Solar Energy Marketwatch
Ker Than Summer Solstice 2010: Why It’s the First Day of Summer National Geographic News
Tony Thompson Twenty years after, mystery still clouds Battle of the Beanfield The Observer, Guardian.co.uk
