Darkness and Light

Ellen and I were out walking around our neighborhood this week and admiring all of the lights on the houses and lawns. There is something incredibly special about the warmth and glow that comes from these displays. Somehow, these strings of brightness bring a sense of hope and restoration in the midst of all the darkness this year. To be honest, the darkness makes the light that much more beautiful.

I am reminded that both dark and light essentially define each other. Both exist in a paradoxical relationship. This is captured in the image of yin and yang. When we come to accept both as part of our lives, we enable ourselves to see things more clearly. As Og Mandino said “I will love the light for it shows me the way, yet I will endure the darkness because it shows me the stars.”

For many people, the holiday seasons are dark and difficult. Some struggle with the loss of loved ones or the pain of broken relationships. Let’s bring some light for each other to provide comfort and encouragement. May the words of Dumbledore remind us “Happiness can be found in the darkest of times, if one only remembers to turn on the light.”