The Thanksgiving to New Year holiday cycle is often marketed as being about family, cheer, good memories, and togetherness. We have high expectations for this time. But the holidays are often difficult. This is a service about holding the tensions of the season. We will recognize that we are approaching the darkest day of the year, and through the calling in and release of the four directions, we will claim our sadnesses, hold unrealistic expectations more lightly, and anticipate the return of the sun and of new life and hope.