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| Take a moment and light a candle |
As our friends in the southern hemisphere settle in for a long summer ahead, of summer rain storms, high temperatures and humidity, we in the northern end of the world are seeing shorter days, dropping temperatures and a sense of hibernation approaching. We will soon see the shortest day of the year.
It is also a time when the frenzy of Christmas preparations begins in earnest. Plans are made for family gatherings. Children are frantically finalising letters to Santa. They may well and truly burst with excitement over the next few weeks. Parents take even deeper sighs. A joy underneath it all is getting ready to unleash. One of the most grace-filled times of the year approaches.
Yet, life continues. Loved ones pass away. Illness calls on our doors. Successes are celebrated. Hurdles are overcome. A homeless person sees a sandwich placed on his lap under his downturned eyes. Elsewhere, hard-earned presents are purchased and carefully hidden. Loneliness calls. Surprise homecomings from overseas beckon. Friends call for help. Busy lives make weary. The human experience continues.
In this moment, take a moment, and light a candle. Follow the pace of the flame. Let silence surround you, for a moment. Feel the natural heart-beat of life, today. Take a sacred moment to find your place in it. Catch your breath. Blend it with the silence. Contemplation allows all to unfold naturally. Lean back, just a little, and allow it.
