Let there be light to drive away the darkness

Let there be wisdom to shine on the unknown

Let there be love to heal our aloneness

Let each of us be a light for one another

 A church I used to attend would sing this invocation at the start of every service. While the church itself wasn’t a fit for me in the long run, these words have stuck in my head for years.

Headed into the darkest month of the year, what a good time to remember that we have the power to brighten the darkness. It’s been a long, hard year for many people; it might be harder this year to remember what to give thanks for when it feels that so much we love and depend on has been turned upside down, taken away, or broken. It might be harder to celebrate the joys of a festive season if you’re feeling alone or struggling financially or suffering health setbacks or grieving a loss. 2020 has really kicked our collective butts.

I think it’s telling that every major religion and culture around the world has a holiday that celebrates the return of light. Many (though not all) take place around the time of solstice. Whether you’re lighting a candle at your personal altar, sitting before a blazing Yule log, lighting a kinara or a menorah or an Advent wreath or a diya – or all of the above; or none – it’s universally recognized that candle magic is powerful.  Darkness and hard times will end, both literally and metaphorically. Light will triumph over darkness, good over evil, and knowledge over ignorance.

And until they do, go out there and be a light in the darkness.