Not necessarily "hijacked," Harvey Andrews... She said "spiritual" --not religious. ;-)

But the neat thing about the Solstices [remember, it's the summer solstice south of the equator] is that they do exist independantly of any and all religious beliefs. Regardless of whether you believe in religion, and even regardless of whether you're human or not, the Solstices are an undenyable event, that can, if we let it, be a strong stone in the foundation of our common experience.

But for those of us in the north, remember:

"As the days begin to lengthen, the cold begins to strengthen"

So gather with you're family and friends, bask in the warmth of each other's company, and be more forgiving of each other.... it could be a long, cold winter cooped up inside, otherwise.

So I'll add my wishes here that this season (in the literal sense) be a joyous one for you and yours.