I was reading something lately and it really struck a cord.
The quote was "I choose to light a candle instead of cursing the darkness."
Every day I "light a candle" and when the kids are older and I introduce this blog to them and invite them to read it from the beginning, I want them to know that during this painful and dark time, we lit candles every day.
It's not hard to find light when you are surrounded by it. The few times and days that feel like the candle can't hold it's strength against the dark, I realize those are the days that I only need to see what's right in front of me- all that the candle can illuminate.
Most moments and days I light my candle and that light shows how many loved ones are lighting one for us too.
I want the kids to know that even though the world, as we knew it, fell out from under us, we are surrounded by love and light. We are blessed by family and friends who would and do drop everything for us. What a gift from beyond.
I want the kids to know that when life gets dark, there is always light. ALWAYS. And in our blessed life, it is very easy to find because it surrounds and envelopes us. This family is so loved.
I want the kids to know that when you choose light there is no way to stay in the darkness. This does not mean push your low feelings aside or dismiss what is really happening. It's important to feel the feelings. I just mean that behind the clouds there is the sun. It shines all the time, even when we can't see it,.it never goes away. It's waiting to shine bright and make the coldness warm. Even the night has stars and the moon shining brightly.
Such is life. When we take comfort in knowing that there is always light, we can get through the hard times that feel unbearable.
I promise to always find the light for myself and for the kids.
"I choose to light a candle instead of cursing the darkness" OK- I may need to drop a few F Bombs at the darkness before I strike that match.
