It is possible to see light even in the dark. In fact, we can see the light better when it is dark. Winter is a time when many cultures celebrate festivals of lights. And it is within these lights from candles or string lights that we recognize magic all around. It is on a dark clear winter night that we can observe the most stars. This shows us that we are part of a larger universe.
I am reminded of my trip to Iceland in December to see the northern lights. Intellectually, knowing that there are fewer daylight hours did not prepare me for the magical pink horizon sunrise at 10 AM and the stunning orange horizon sunset at 3 PM. And even more surprising and perhaps more magical was enjoying a hotel breakfast by candlelight because it was pitch black outside.
What I take away from this experience and all of the festivals I’ve enjoyed is that darkness has room for light. It also ties in beautifully with a quote from Leonard Cohen, “There is a crack in everything, that’s how the light gets in.” Or the Japanese concept of Kintsugi that there is beauty in imperfection. And so it is that in our darkest moments if you look closely enough, you will see the flicker of a candle flame or the sparkle of string lights.
I am filled with awe, wonder, and amazement when I take a moment to acknowledge the magic in every day things such as lights in the darkness. Wishing you find lights this winter.
Copyright © 2024 Devashri Gupta. All rights reserved.
