Finding Light in the Darkness
With the upcoming winter storm Jonas headed this way, many people are preparing for bitter cold temperatures and endless piles of snow. Gusty winds, downed power lines, and hazardous road conditions are all synonymous with a storm like Jonas. It’s just part of the winter season. Winter is the time of year when temperatures are at their coldest, and the outer world is at its darkest. “Snowbirds” flee the frigid cold, heading south for warmer weather. The mere mention of the word “winter” makes them shudder. Perhaps many of us don’t see the value of winter in our lives. Perhaps it’s just a series of long storms we have to weather. But winter does have value – it has lessons to teach us. It’s the time of year when we turn inward to listen and reflect – to make sense of who we are and why we’re here.
In the long dark nights of winter, silence lingers, giving us an opportunity to go within and connect with the center of our beings. Examining the choices we have made and the truths that have guided us, we begin to contemplate our beliefs – the things we hold most dear. This time of introspection can affirm the direction our lives are taking or reveal that somehow we have lost our way. Blustery winds can easily blow us off course in the storms of life. Not able to see clearly, we’re unsure of our next move.
But the truth is we don’t have to have all the answers. Sometimes our lives just go off course. We don’t always know where we are going or why. During these times, our questioning can lead us down new paths. It can provide revelations we’ve never thought of before. Suddenly, we may see a new perspective or think of a new solution to an existing problem. Reflecting on our lives enables us to finally understand what has eluded us in the past. We listen to our hearts and trust ourselves more. Clarity reveals itself in new and powerful ways directing us toward our passion – the light that burns within us. This inner light guides our way – its flames blazing. Even through the darkest of times, it will lead us on with newfound wisdom and strength. When we trust in its guidance, we will find our way.
As darkness envelops the winter season, will you take the time to turn inward and listen to your heart? What beliefs do you hold most dear? What are the things you are most passionate about? Connect with yourself and see what you discover; see what lessons you learn. And although figuring out life’s biggest questions may be an internal struggle – where the winds try to blow you off course – isn’t it worth the effort? Like the brilliant stars in the heavens, the light within you shines. Let it burn brightly and guide you through the darkness. When the storms of life come, it will not lead you astray. Follow your inner light and live out your passion. Be who you came here to be.
