One of my favorite annual events in Taos is the Lighting of Ledoux, which kicks off the winter holiday season.

Ledoux is a charming little street near the plaza, and the Harwood Museum along with merchants and galleries host with bonfires, hot cider, and sweets. We all come out to walk around, get a sugar fix, and see folks we may not have seen in awhile.

My friend lives across the street from Ledoux and hosts an open house every year, as well. I’ve been a few times and though I’m always happy to be invited, I generally pop in and pop out, keeping my introverted self safe and comfortable with just enough social contact to avoid full-blown hermit status.

But Saturday night something was different. Instead of doing my usual make-an-appearance and run back home, I was compelled to stay longer and have real conversations, to dig deeper. Instead of having quick catch-ups, I had questions for these interesting, creative people I know. I wanted to learn more about what they’ve been up to, and how, and why.

I wanted to engage and expand, and let a little bit of myself out in the process. I wanted to be more vulnerable, and curious, and have a real two-way experience.

Well!

The upshot is, it felt great. I learned more about people I’ve known for ages, got new ideas and inspiration for my own work, and left feeling like a more connected member of my community.

Have you had this experience, where you’ve made a shift in how you interact with the world? If so, I’d love to hear about it.

I’m crediting my shift to the super moon that was out this weekend. I made a few photos with my iPhone, so the quality isn’t great in the low light, but to me they convey the magic of winter nights.

This beautiful arrangement welcomed strollers and shoppers.

If there had been graham crackers and chocolate, I would have totally jumped in on this.

Thank you for the guidance, moon.

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