Amid Darkness, there is Light.
A single candle's flame has the capacity to cut through the deepest darkness, reminding us that even the smallest light dispels it. This profound reality is shared by nations and traditions all across the world, and light festivals, including that of Christmas, serve as beacons of hope and regeneration.
Light celebrations across the world
Throughout history, communities have come together to celebrate light's victory over darkness. In Thailand, the peaceful Loi Krathong holiday brightens canals with lotus-shaped rafts decked with candles, while the sky fills with floating lanterns during Yi Peng, symbolizing the release of past dangers. The star of Bethlehem illustrates the power of a single star to penetrate the darkness, and the hope envisioned with the birth of Christ.
The ancient Festival of Lights, Diwali, transforms South Asian communities with oil lamps and candles to commemorate the triumph of light over darkness and wisdom over ignorance. The Fête des Lumières in Lyon, France, began as a plague tribute in 1643 and has since grown into a spectacular metropolitan event attended by millions.
Hope is Power
Hope is our beacon as we face life's obstacles. This relationship between light and hope is more than just a symbol; it is deeply ingrained in human experience. Ancient communities recognized this viscerally, as winter's darkness prevented the growth of food. They needed the hope of the returning light to ensure harvests in the coming year. Thus, the need to celebrate the return of the sun through light festivals emerged as a signal of the coming year and the promise of harvests.
Today
The ultimate reality is still that darkness cannot overpower even the weakest light. Confucius wisely said, we should light a candle instead of cursing the darkness. This knowledge reminds us that hope, like light, has the ability to disperse gloom over decades and civilizations.
Light celebrations provide potent reminders of humanity's resiliency in our modern society, when all that is dark might feel overpowering.
The enduring truth remains - darkness cannot overcome even the faintest light. As Confucius wisely noted, rather than curse the darkness, we should light a candle. This wisdom echoes across generations and cultures, reminding us that hope, like light, has the power to scatter darkness.
Looking Forward
We can find strength in this universal truth as we confront our own dark times, whether they be individual or group struggles. We can be light-bearers, much like the festivals that change our towns and cities. Every deed of generosity, every brave moment, and every utterance of optimism acts as a tiny spark that helps chase out the darkness.
Just as a single candle may light a whole room, hope is the light that disperses darkness. By commemorating light, we uphold an age-old custom that inspires and unites people from all walks of life and honours our common human ability to bring brightness even in the darkest moments.
Best wishes for this holiday season,
Rosari