Deanna Beaver
Tis the season to celebrate with lights. White lights, blue lights, all colors of light.
Light affects us in so many ways. Our ancestors lived by the rise and fall of the sun. Our bodies are affected physically and mentally by getting the right amount of sunlight. Some of us may have experienced SAD—Seasonal Affective Disorder. This type of depression is more prevalent in the fall and winter months. Do you feel sluggish after the fifth day of clouds and rain? It’s incredible how scientists have attributed many of our body’s ailments to a lack of sunshine.
I love the bright lights, except for those fluorescent lights in a classroom. ( I can actually hear the faint buzzing of the bulbs.) I feel my spirit lift when the sun peeks out for a short while. The childlike wonder continues as I cruise around neighborhoods during December, checking out the Christmas and Hanukkah lights.
I also marvel at God’s creation of celestial objects in the night sky. He knew exactly what He was doing.
Over the years, cities, towns, stores, and homes have added year-round lighting to make life more inviting.
Enlighten us on how light has affected you this winter or at any time in the comments below.
The word “light” is mentioned around 177 times in the KJV of the Bible (you know, the only version Granddaddy allowed!). The world begins with “let there be light” and so it goes. Light is seen as inherently good. A lighter load, things that are in the dark shall be brought into the light, beautiful Christmas lights, etc. When I was little, okay until I was about 30, I was afraid of the dark. No one ever tried explaining to me why I should not be. I was just told not to be afraid of it. When I had my own children it was my job to put that fear to bed (literally!). The answer was light. So simple. A tiny night light that reassured my littles. As I have gotten older, I realize just how the Lord is our light. He tells us that He alone is the way, the truth, and the light. Light is so very important to us in all seasons of life, for so many reasons. Look for the light, be someone’s light.
Meredith, thank you for sharing. As a Christian, I concur with your sentiments of light. It is a goal of mine to shine His love brightly with others. You are one of those people that shines Jesus’love. Love you.
Not being a fan of winter at all and the cold and the shorter days, I actually have miniature lights that I keep on year round in my bedroom area! We can also work to be someone’s light each and every day!
Patty, I don’t seem to be as productive when when it’s gloomy outside. But somehow a lot of people that live in those environments seem to overcome the weather. Puzzling to me. I will have to do more research. Yes! We can be a light for those around us. Thank you for engaging. Stay warm.
As I was reading your blog with my morning coffee, the sun was just beginning to rise. I had just lit the candles (okay really I used my remote) admittedly not quite the same as real candles but they do provide some ambiance. I felt a sense of peace and calm come over me. One day I hope to experience the Northern lights and I’m quite sure I will be overwhelmed with excitement!
Vicki, it’s amazing how we are drawn to light. My grandson, three years old, scribbled with numerous crayons on paper the other day. I asked him to tell me about his drawing. He said, “It’s the Northern Lights!” His sister Haley, five years old, said, “You’re right, Elijah, that looks just like them!” I marvel at how God paints our sky on the daily. But those lights, they’re a wonder. I know you’ll make this bucket list come true. For now, enjoy your candles!
We are in Rome enjoying all its history and beauty. We were reminded of the dark ages and then the tranquility of Christianity and light! Seeking the light is universal.
Missy,how exciting to experience Rome, especially during the season of light. I know you will have many things to share. We all need to be reminded of history and the dark ages. I am thankful that we can share the light of Christ with others.