“I generate an energy field in and around me of a high vibrational frequency. No unconsciousness, no negativity, no discord can enter that field and survive, just as darkness cannot survive in the presence of light.” Eckhart Tolle
As the light outside slips away earlier each day, we are drawn to look more deeply inward. What can we learn from the many religious celebrations that fill this time of year with joy and remembrance? What holidays do you celebrate and what do they mean to you?
Celebrating Darkness and Light
Our celebrations have more in common than we may realize, for all celebrate the significance of light and remind us we are all One. On December 22, we celebrate the Solstice, the longest day of the year, the time of deepest darkness before days begin to shorten, and we begin the journey back to the light and growth of spring. In the Sumerian myth of Inanna, Inanna gave up her earthly life and journeyed to the underworld to visit her jealous sister. There, she was stripped of her power, died, and was reborn. The story is a reminder that, even when we feel all is lost, our wounds can be healed and burdens lifted. We will find the light again if we are willing to take the journey.
Celebrating the Love of Christ
On December 25, we celebrate Christmas, the birth of Jesus who has been called, “The light of the world.” The 25th was also the Roman Winter Solstice based on the Julian calendar. On this day, the birth of Jesus brought to our consciousness the idea of putting love at the center of our lives. We are to love our neighbors as ourselves and to treat them as we wish to be treated. We are all given the challenge to replace the negative ideas that separate us with the belief that we are all One in love. Love is the light that will heal and bring us to an enlightened awareness so that we may live as neighbors, regardless of our differences.
Celebrating Peace and Faith
Beginning on December 21, is Hanukkah, the Festival of Lights in Judaism. This day commemorates the rededication of the Holy Temple in Jerusalem after the Maccabean Revolt in the Second Century BCE. Each night for eight days a candle is lit. As the light grows, faith grows. Like Christmas, it is a time of gift-giving, feasting, and celebrating with those we love. It is a celebration of light.
Celebrating Our Light Within
In these long dark days, we are more and more drawn to the light. We enact rituals that bring us together and remind us that light, love and faith uplift and enrich our lives. As the security of our lives is shaken by changes in the world around us, we must remember that the lights of celebration that comfort us are only reflections of the light within us. It is that light that we must ignite to renew and grow our lives. If we allow that light to shine outward, it will inspire and heal others. That is the light that connects us to the eternal love of the Creator where we may dwell in peace regardless of the season. In touch with the Creator, we are all blessed.
Have a wonderful holiday! I will post again on January 4, 2012.
Awakening to the Dance 