Last night I donned warm clothes and set out into the darkness to adorn the front of my house with icicle lights.  Though this event is weeks later than usual for me, I gave myself permission to enjoy the magic of the lights coming to life – and enjoy I did.  The air was cool, crisp and still, and the sky was dark.  The only sounds were the leaves under my feet and the sound of neighborhood dogs from afar.

I noticed that with each strand I hung, my spirit felt a little lighter; my heart a little warmer.  There is something transforming about the effect of light in our lives; and though my mind wants to contemplate the biochemistry of it all, my soul just wants to revel in the mystery. Today I choose the later.  

This is the week of the winter solstice; literally the darkest day of the year.  For many, this time of year is also the figuratively darkest time as well: when all that is lacking looms larger than life and threatens to swallow us into the darkness.  From our internal world to our global community, we are in great need of the transforming power of the Light. 

In this dark time we light candles, wreaths, trees, windows and fireplaces; searching for the comfort and peace we crave.  And while I enjoy them all, I am aware that we carry the most transformative light within us.  Bring to mind someone you know that lights up a room when they enter it – now you know what I’m talking about!  A smile, eyes, face, or presence that is lit from within is more transforming than a room full of candles. 

What would it be like to be in a store, post office or church full of people who carry that light within?  How would it transform your experience?  What would it be like to be the person that shines your light in those places?  How would it transform your experience? 

In this busy time of year, I bid you to slow down, look inside and connect to the Light within you; and then bravely let it shine through you and be the transformation we seek in the world - be the light in the darkness.