Darkness is associated with negativity. Light is associated with positive things. There is a lot of darkness around us these days. It is around globally and in our community. It is also the time of year when the days are shortest in this part of the world. The darkness, both literal and figurative, is often a depressing challenge. This is why we need light.
At Christmas, Christians celebrate the birth of Christ as the Light of the World. They believe Christ is the saviour and a light out of darkness. Currently, Jewish people are celebrating Hanukkah. Part of the significance of that holiday is commemorating a miracle of light in the temple lasting for eight days when there was only enough oil for one day. The positivity of light is indeed a difficult thing to seek following the terrorist attack which recently occurred at a Hanukkah celebration in Australia. Yet, people of faith persevere and seek light for themselves and others.
One does not have to be religious to see the advantages of light over darkness. Light makes it possible to live safely at home, work, and on the road at night. Doctors need light to examine and operate on patients. Mechanics need light to repair automobiles. The minerals that are made into products we use come from mines underground where light is essential for safe extraction. And of course, during the Christmas season, light displays on private properties and in public spaces bring colour and joy as an expression of seasonal celebration. The positive advantages of light are endless.
There are negative people around who oppose everything, even good ideas. They say it cannot be done or should not be done. There are people who perpetually complain about and oppose those with different beliefs or lifestyles. There are posters of garbage on social media that have no constructive intent. This is not light. It is dark. We can, and must, respect and accommodate each other, and continually look ahead. We can all be different but still have common objectives. Think of how headlights on a car make it possible for a driver to see what is ahead. Light, whether physical or spiritual, is what allows us to look ahead with positive anticipation and a common goal.
This Christmas, and in the year ahead, focus on what is good. Turn on the light!
