Speaking of Spirit

This is called the Season of Light and Love, but what does Love have to do with it?  How do we factor in love as a symbol of holidays that give witness to the duality of light and dark in the world. For me, Love and Light go hand-in-hand. Think about it...don't you "light up" when you see someone you love?  Have you ever witnessed "love lights" in someone's eyes?  How often have you heard or read that falling in love was like having a fire burning inside? With the feeling of love, comes the desire to give. If we think about gift-giving, which is a prominent tradition during this time of the year, love is a huge factor. We give gifts, symbols of our love and affection, to those we care about, those we hold close. We also give gifts as a sign of friendship. (Love is synonymous with charity, agape, and goodwill.) In cultures around the world, gift-giving is an important part of keeping the peace, showing respect and gratitude as well as demonstratin...

There is a crack in everything, that's how the light gets in. Leonard Cohen   In September, the season of Light, Love and Gratitude began. This month, people around the world celebrate - the harvest (Sukkot), grateful for the bounty they have been given; the Light (Diwali), observing Light and darkness; and the love of ancestors (All Soul's Day/All Hallows' Eve), remembering our dead and giving thanks for their lives with us. As we move forward towards the end of the year, the feasts and festivals of Light, Love and Gratitude continue.   This year, there is a greater need to observe these days, together. The world is very "dark" in so many places due to natural disasters, hate, oppression, and greed. Observing these Holy days, reminds us that even in the darkest night the Light of millions of stars illuminates the sky. These times together remind us that Love is eternal; that those who shared our lives are always with us. These celebrations remind u...