A Time of Waiting, A Time of Anticipation

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“Maybe you have to know the darkness 
before you can appreciate the light.” 
~ Madeline L’Engle ~

This is a time of great anticipation in many faith paths around the world. In the northern hemisphere, it is a time where the darkness of winter descends on the Earth. The longest night of the year comes at the end of December. Therefore, it is no wonder that Light, in the form of fires that warm and candles that brighten are an intricate part of so many celebrations.

During the earliest times of humanity, Solstice Yule fires brought light and warmth to the cold winter nights. Judaism celebrated the Miracle of the Lights with the lighting of the menorah. Christians used a circle of candles to observe the time before the birth of Jesus, who is called the Light of the World. The African diaspora, primarily in the US, remember their ancestors at this time of year with the lighting of seven candles. Each candle is a reminder of a specific virtue or trait. 

No matter what tradition you follow, the important thing to remember is that, at this time of year, fire - candles - lights, are all symbolic of our longing for or our hope for Peace, Joy, and Love in the world. 

May we all kindle the Light of Love within our hearts and allow it to burn bright, not only at this time of the year, but throughout our lives.

Blessings!


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