“Turn up the light.”
During periods of darkness we all search for more light. Some of us have flashlights in every room in case the power goes out. Children often have to have a night-light on to feel secure enough to fall asleep. Especially at this time of year (at least in the Northern Hemisphere), it’s no accident that so many holidays and festivals around the world involve the lighting of candles, strings of lights, even fireworks. We want – we need – light.
In the context of our spiritual lives, however, this directive takes on a deeper meaning. As Jesus, our Gurus, and all the wisdom traditions have taught, the light is always on in every one of us. Its source is the Divine; therefore there truly can be no “on” or “off” switch. It is our own dimmer switch, in the form of ego, that determines how much God’s Light may shine within us and extend outward.
Just in the Bible alone, there are dozens of references to light. Do we “let it shine”? Are we “following it in our footsteps”? Or do we “hide it under a bushel” or “turn away from it”?
I confess that, at any given moment, my own conscious connection to the divine Light still varies widely. Still, like everyone, this soul having a human experience is a work in progress. Many reminders of that Light are available to me daily, in the form of prayers, chants, music, affirmations, meditation and inspirational messages from our teachers and guides. What a joy to sing, during each Sunday’s Festival of Light, “Aum…Gone is delusion in the light!” and “Thy Light within us shining / Has shown where freedom lies!”
In a world filled with turmoil and despair, may we all turn up our individual lights just a bit more to dispel the darkness. This season, however you celebrate, may your Light touch someone else and help them shine theirs more brightly.
Christmas Blessings,
Margery