Tip 47: From Darkness Into Light

Better to light one small candle
than to curse the darkness.
Chinese Proverb

In November each year an Advent Procession service is held in Salisbury Cathedral. The service begins in total darkness and then gradually, to the sound of sublime choral plainsong, hundreds of candles are lit throughout the vast space of the Cathedral. It’s a deeply moving and spiritually uplifting experience.

Advent is, of course, all about the coming of the Light. But we're not far now from the Winter Solstice; that day in the depths of winter that heralds the turning of the earth from winter to spring — from darkness into light.

I found myself reflecting on this during the service and all the different meanings of the coming of the light. For some it will have a profound religious / spiritual significance. For others it may bring a sense of hope and optimism that from that point in December the days will gradually lengthen as we move towards spring; when the natural world stirs and green shoots start to appear above the ground.

But what about the less obvious aspects of moving from darkness into light? Could it be removing the cloak that's kept you covered from the world and stepping into the light of who you really are? Making the brave decision to move out of a job or relationship that's kept you in the dark into one that brings joy and light into your life? Is it giving yourself permission to be who you know you really are — not repressed by the expectations of others? Is it by doing something outrageous to ignite a spark in yourself and in your life? What might that look and feel like?

I will love the sun for it warms my bones;
yet I will love the rain for it cleanses my spirit.
I will love the light for it shows me the way;
yet I will love the darkness for it shows me the stars.
Og Mandino

Darkness cannot drive out darkness; only light can do that.
Hate cannot drive out hate; only love can do that.
Dr Martin Luther King Jr.