Finding Our Light

 

This morning, as the predawn sky begins to brighten, I find myself meditating on darkness and the coming of light. We are entering into the darkest time of the year. Between Thanksgiving and Christmas, we approach the Winter Solstice, which is the shortest day of the year, with the least amount of possible sunlight. During this time, we can fear and curse the dark, or we can embrace the lessons it has to teach us.

 There is something to be said for sometimes sitting in the dark: Darkness can be so soothing when you know it won't last forever; you can slip into shadow as a refuge, especially when the light has been pitiless. Spiritual wisdom has it that light is the truth, but there are many kinds of beauty in darkness, like the silver-golden glitter in the internal dark when we close our eyes and at twilight and at dawn...(Anne Lamott, Dusk, Night, Dawn).

Without darkness, we cannot see or appreciate the light. As we retreat into our homes, light fireplaces and candles, put up holiday twinkle and sparkle, we contrast the darkness and cold of the outside world with the cheeriness we create indoors. We celebrate light at this time of year, clinging to it as our natural world settles into the quiet of hibernation.  

Contrasts of darkness and light are major themes in many religions. Diwali, the Hindu Festival of Lights on November 12, celebrates the inner light that protects us from darkness and welcomes peace and joy. Hanukkah, the Jewish Festival of Lights which begins on December 7, celebrates the reclaiming of the temple of Jerusalem and centers around the lighting of the Menorah for eight days. 

Advent is the Christian period of preparation for Christ's birth and second coming; the anticipation of the Light of the World being manifested in our hearts and minds. The Advent wreath and lighting of candles has special significance:The advent candles each represent a specific aspect of the spiritual preparations for Christmas.The three main colors are purple, pink, and white, symbolizing hope, peace, joy and love. The last (white) candle, lit on the fourth Sunday of Advent, is the Christ candle.

Whatever our religious traditions, we are entering a time of year marked by retreat and reflection, alternating with festive gathering and celebrations: the darkness of retreat contrasts with the light that we bring from within and manifest in our hearts and homes.

 We can learn from the dark as well as the light, embracing each as part of the mystery that is life. As we pause to gather with family for Thanksgiving this week, may we remember to give thanks in all times and circumstances!

Thank you God, for everything!