Sights of the Season

This time of year you see them everywhere….glowing in windows, hanging in bright spheres from trees, blinking in yards, flickering on tables, outlining homes…..LIGHTS! Lights play a central role in many of the holidays celebrated this time of year.

• During Hanukkah, a candle is lit each night for eight evenings. The candles bring to memory the miracle of oil lasting eight days instead of one after the destruction of the Temple.
• At Christmas, Christians use lights to symbolize Jesus bringing light and hope to a lost world. Stars represent the bright star that led wise men to Bethlehem after Jesus’ birth.
• Hindus, Jains and Sikhs celebrate Diwali, also known as the “festival of lights” between mid-October and mid-November. Diwali involves the lighting of small clay lamps to signify the triumph of good over evil.
• Kwanzaa celebrates the African heritage and culture. Kwanzaa candles are one of the most important symbols of the celebration. For seven nights a candle is lit to observe the importance of unity, self-determination, responsibility, purpose, creativity and faith.

In the dark, all lights look the same. It is impossible to discern the reason for their illumination but it is a great time for personal reflection. What decisions or actions can I make to assure that good triumphs over evil? What can I do to bring hope to someone? How can my actions and choices help bring unity to my world? 

Now the next step… 

What opportunities can I provide for my children to learn the importance of responsibility and determination? How can creativity be honored and nurtured? How can I pass on traditions that are important memories to my family and faith? 

 
Strive to be a light in someone’s dark world. Be a flicker of love, understanding and encouragement.

 
Beth Hopkins, 1st grade teacher