There is a particular point in autumn when I notice the evenings changing properly.
Journeys that were made in daylight only a few weeks ago begin to end in darkness. The same road, woodland path or walk from the bus stop feels a little different when the light has gone, even when you know every turn of it.
I wrote this as something small to carry into those journeys. It is not meant to make darkness into something threatening. Quite the opposite. It is a blessing for remembering the familiar things around us: the road beneath our feet, the landmarks we recognise, and the place we are travelling towards.
A blessing for travelling home after dark
May the road remain clear before you.
May your feet know where they are going, even when the light has gone.
May the trees, hedges and houses become familiar markers rather than shadows to fear.
May you carry only what belongs with you, and leave the weight of the day behind.
May the door you are travelling towards open to warmth.
And until you reach it, may you be held safely between one place and the next.
You might read it before setting out, keep a line in mind while you travel, or simply return to it on an evening when the road home feels longer than usual.
Boed y ffordd adref yn dy arwain yn ddiogel.
May the road home lead you safely.
Elowen
A Blessing for Travelling Home After Dark
