Winter is a dark time of year. People feel shut in. It is cold and they don't go outside much, running from work to the stores and back to ther sanctuary of their homes. They are depressed and anxious about the season. There is never enough money, too many committments and too many desires, selfish ones, that come before anything else. They consume, buy new when they had what was good enough, but old. Heck, it was not even old, just not new. I can see you nodding your head.
I used to be that too. But this journey I am on to learn how to love life and love myself is a hard one. I no longer want anything. I want to not have anything either, to sell it all and walk away with a suitcase of needs. I no longer want to consume. I don't care what is on sale. I don't look at money off coupons unless it is already something I need.
And what about Christmas. This is a Christian religious ceremony based on the belief that a baby was born somewhere in the desert in winter around the solstice. The many traditions are taken from pagan celebrations, as are the symbols associated with the holiday. Yet, in everyone's hearts there is the feeling of something else. Admonishment for not being a good Christian or joy for the son of God coming to save the world. The First Nations did not believe that they did anything which required them to need to be saved. They did not need churches because wherever they were was a sacred place among the Creator. They revered the Earth, not wrapped it in plastic. I could go on.
So, what about it, Christmas, that is? I may be alone this Christmas. I have family within an hour of me, real family, and even some friends 2 hours away. They know I am here, but I have never been invited to their homes, not for Christmas or any other time. Is Christmas a time for family? My family is not here , but my best friend will be around either before or after Christmas for a visit. Bless her heart. Coming to Alberta in winter is not most people's ideal way to spend holiday time. My kids are coming sometimes around Christmas too. People matter. The actual date doesn't.
And in the dark days of winter, the symbol of the wreath, a circle without end, means life will go on. I wish it was different. I wish people had time for one another, not just on holidays, but everyday. Who cares about the presents, the wrapping and the endless feasting? What matters is the feeling of love in our hearts, not just one day, but each day. That and letting our little lights shine to help others find their way in that darkness…that is it. The Christmas candle. Each day, every day. Let your light shine.