Sans Fig Leaf
w
"The Season of Darkness"
19 December, 2002
The sun retreats.
Darkness falls early each afternoon, while dawn comes later each morning. The weather turns cold. The earth seems to sleep, as trees thrust bare branches toward a cold, grey sky.
We fear the darkness.
We don't know what may lurk, unseen, in its depths. We cower and hide from dangers both real and imagined. Darkness becomes dispair. For is it not the darkness of ignorance that leads to hate? And is it not the darkness of hatred that brings pain and suffering?
Be cautious of possible danger, but not so cautious that we cower from all things, huddled in the gravest darkness of all: loneliness.
During the bright light of summer, dazzled by the sun, we disparage the simple candle. Its tiny flame seems insignificant. Yet, in the depth of winter's longest night, we are reminded again of the candle's power.
Light a single candle in the dark. See how brightly it shines.
Take up the candle and step boldly into the darkness. See how the shadows retreat, and that which was hidden is revealed. In a world of darkness, one small candle can, indeed make a difference. And from one candle we may light other candles. And each of those can even more besides. Soon the night will be filled with dancing flames.
Do not cower alone in the dark. Hold up your light for others to see. Share your light, and be repaid in warmth and kindess.
Tell those you love that you love them. Tell them at every opportunity. Encourage them to tell others. Because the more love you give away, the more you have.
Life is not measured by the number years we experience, but by the moments that take our breath away.
Light your candle.
It is better to light one candle than to curse the darkness.
--Old Chinese Proverb