Darkness

  In the darkness of night there is a stillness that only "night owls," such as myself can hear. It is in these whispers deep truths can be heard. The world feels uncluttered, peaceful and mysterious. I suppose that is why for centuries 2-3 a.m. have been referenced as the "bewitching hours." 
​  Last evening as I sat in bed, enjoying the warmth in my heart from the Healing circle, I felt the magic that comes when life is witnessed by those we trust. There is a realness, a genuine, raw tenderness that comes from being heard. It takes great courage to learn to trust others enough to be willing to be so vulnerable.
  As we were nearing the end of our time together the candle in the center of the room became very dim, and within a few moments the flame went out. The candle still had a large portion of wax, so why it went out was a mystery. Nonetheless, we closed the evening in our usual manner and those traveling headed home. 
  Sitting in my bed, savoring the tenderness of our small gathering, it occurred to me, that perhaps the candle was teaching us something. Perhaps in the verbal chattering of our human emotions our fire can become so dim it disappears. That is, until it is once again re-ignited. Through the darkness of our sad, painful experiences we can, if we are willing to be brave, rekindle the fire within. IF we are willing to reconnect to the light of knowing that comes from re-membering who we really are, beneath the sad moments, we can find our way home . . .  to our authentic selves.  For in the darkness of hurt, we learn what really makes us happy.
  It is then our task to begin to heal those old wounds as we travel through the "shadow of death" walking with those with whom we trust beside us. When we take that journey with those that love us unconditionally and without judgment, we find our way back to the light of forgiveness, which helps us gather the scattered pieces of selves and restore ourselves to wholeness. This is absolutely the first and most vital step. It begins within!
  This is no easy task; however, it is worth the effort to contribute another healed warrior into the world here on Earth. Then, and only then, can peace and mutual respect bring about the cooperation and collaboration needed to realign the spirit of unity rather then the divisiveness of separation that the world currently exhibits. How about becoming a bringer of light to help us move through this darkness of separation? It takes one person at a time to choose wisely, and to not choose is choosing  to contribute to what we currently have. Ignite that heart, and stand strong, we're all in this together!