We often associate this season with shopping lists, last-minute gifts and endless commitments, but in the old traditions of Yule and the Winter Solstice, this time of year was not about consuming, it was about celebrating the return of the light. So while the world outside may look darker and faster than ever, we can choose to bring light into it through something very simple yet deeply powerful: kindness.
Welcome on Cloud Number 9 Art, where we explore what it means to enjoy slow spirituality in a practical and simple way. Let’s begin.
The Symbolism of Yule
The Winter Solstice marks the longest night of the year, after which light slowly begins to return. In many cultures, Yule was the time to honor renewal, rebirth and the spark of hope that shines even in the darkest moments. Kindness works in the same way: it might seem small, but it has the power to grow and illuminate much more than we imagine.
Kindness Is Not Weakness
One of the most common fears is that being kind makes us look naïve or weak. But true kindness is not submission, it is a conscious choice. It means saying no when something goes against our values, but also choosing to respond with empathy instead of anger. It is not about pleasing everyone, but about aligning our actions with what feels true and compassionate.
The Transformative Energy of Kindness
Every act of kindness, no matter how small, has a ripple effect. Smiling at a stranger, listening without distraction, offering a sincere word of encouragement: these are not meaningless gestures. For the person who receives them, they can be the spark that changes their day. We may not change the entire world, but we can always change someone’s world for the better.
From Consumerism to Heart
Modern holidays often come with pressure: perfect gifts, perfect tables, perfect plans. But the ancient spirit of Yule was never about perfection, it was about connection. Instead of focusing on what we can buy, we can focus on what we can share: time, presence, genuine attention. A small handmade gift, a shared meal, or simply showing up with an open heart can be worth far more than any expensive purchase.
Be Kind to Yourself First
Kindness is not only something we extend outward — it starts within. If we constantly push ourselves to exhaustion, criticize every mistake and never allow rest, we create a cycle of harshness that inevitably spills onto others. By practicing self-kindness — taking time to rest, speaking gently to ourselves, respecting our limits — we recharge and become capable of spreading authentic kindness to those around us.
Light Returns with Kindness
As Yule reminds us, even the longest night gives way to the dawn. The world does not need us to be perfect, it needs us to be gentle, to choose kindness in a time when it often feels forgotten. Each small act we make plants a seed of light that will grow, just as the days now slowly begin to grow longer.
At this solstice, may we all remember that the greatest gift we can give — to ourselves, to others, to the world — is kindness.
Cloud Number 9 Art
When you feel the need for guidance to better understand yourself and your path, turning to spiritual support can be the wisest choice. At cloudnumber9art.com we offer tarot readings and custom meditations designed to bring clarity, peace of mind and a slower, more mindful spirituality.
We never sugarcoat what you need to hear, but we always make sure our words are kind and empathetic. Like you, we’re lifelong learners and every piece of advice we share comes from our own experience and commitment to growth.
Choosing Cloud Number 9 Art means finding a safe, welcoming space where you can reconnect with your intuition and focus on what truly matters. Thanks for being with us and remember to be kind to yourself as you’re the most important relationship ever in your life.