Celebration of Light and Life

As we near the end of another year, it is very fitting to look back and reflect upon what we have experienced. For some, it has been a wonderful, very successful and happy year, filled with many accomplishments. For others, it was a year filled with great pain, loss and sorrow because of the death of a loved one or the separation of parents, siblings or children. What is your story?

Each month of December brings together family and friends to celebrate particular holidays. Many travel from far and near to be part of gatherings.

Because we are now in the time of winter and darkness comes so soon in the northern hemisphere, we naturally focus on light. Light is a symbol used all over the world in many religious festivals and holiday get-togethers. It is meant to lift our spirits and create a sense of community for all who are participating in the merriment. Often community festivities set up a display of musical selections to accompany the lights. In religious festivals, singing and dancing, with particular honored readings accompany the lighting of candles. In all, the light is the center of the party or assembly.

As I reflect on this time of year, I realize that here is an opportunity to take some time to look backward but also look forward to the upcoming year. Last New Years gave me a chance to make new resolutions or revamp the old ones. How did I do? Did I actually list one or several and kept them in mind during the year? What am I planning to do this coming year?

The celebrations of light and life are very important for me. The two are intertwined. I love the bright sunshine and all that it brings. The cold and dark of winter makes me appreciate the upcoming spring and summer. Every celebration of light nurtures my soul and helps me focus on the bright colors in the tapestry of my life with family and friends.

May you too celebrate light and life, often in the midst of winter! Keep spring in the sanctuary of your heart!