Share Your Light
Light. This short, five letter word is electrifying. For some of us, it refers to the tangible light we can see. When the sun rises and sets, it beams rays across the sky. The lights we turn off at night and on in the morning make our surroundings visible. The concept of “light” serves as a comparison (versus heavy) of that which we carry in our hands or hearts. There are multiple definitions of this seemingly simple word. “Light” shifts within sentences as a noun, verb, adjective, and more.
I’ve been utilizing, listening to, reading about, and pondering this word quite often. The word “light” is also used in mystical and religious settings. Spiritual leaders are beacons of light when they speak and sing. Their leadership and insight illuminates synagogues, churches, and other sacred spaces.
Light is symbolic in several holidays that are celebrated this month. Hanukkah is referred to as the “Festival of Lights.” According to the story, there was only enough oil for one day. Miraculously, the oil lasted for eight days and eight nights. A menorah is visibly displayed while prayers are said, latkes are devoured, and dreidels are spun.
Tomorrow, Christmas will be celebrated with cheer, carols, and customs such as family meals and gifts. Trees stand majestically in homes across the world. Colorful, creative ornaments adorn branches. Exterior decor and twinkling lights brighten windows, front yards, and rooftops; they reflect world-wide festivity.
Kwanzaa is another holiday that honors the heritage in African-American culture. It’s observed from December 26 to January 1. It culminates in a feast and gift-giving. A kinara, which is comprised of seven candles, is used to symbolize seven core principles.
For those who celebrate any/all of these holidays, please pause while you participate in your tradition or ritual. As wicks are lit and candles flicker, send beams of loving energy to the world. Please consider that for some people the holidays bring pain rather than healing, sadness rather than joy, tears rather than laughter. Lighting another person’s flame spreads mutual, compassionate, and radiant fire. We all need more light and love.
There are lightgivers who illuminate us in secular settings, too. You know them well. Family. Friends. Children. Teachers. Doctors. Animals. They embrace us daily. I encourage you to broaden your awareness of those who shine brightly. Acknowledge the light you receive from them and share it with others.
Sadly, several souls I’ve met during my life crave and demand the spotlight. I am sure you have encountered these light suckers as well. These insecure, self-centered people do not realize that lighting another soul’s candle will not dim their own. In fact, kindling and honoring others’ light brightens our entire planet.
In a time where darkness is potent and pervasive, we must kindle our collective flame now more than ever. We can do this in small ways such as smiling at a stranger. What may seem minor to you could brighten another’s day. We can spread light in broader ways such as reigniting an old friendship, volunteering in various capacities, or helping those in need.
We must acknowledge the shade within ourselves to find our own light. As Brene Brown eloquently said, “The dark does not destroy the light; it defines it. It’s our fear of the dark that casts our joy into the shadows.” Light also represents truth, purity, direction, and beginnings.
The moon magically casts her luminous glow on the darkest nights. Stars shine brightest in the blackest sky. During this holiday season, let us not deny the shadows that surround us. See them for what or who they are and leave them behind. Realize the radiance within your own soul and beam your light onto others. For without this contrast, we wouldn’t as deeply appreciate the light.