Twinkling Lights and Hope in Dark Times
Twinkling lights illuminate the night sky as I gaze through my apartment window. These lights aren’t here year-round; they climb out of their hiding spots as winter approaches, bringing Christmas along with them. It feels we really need them right now, considering all the horrible events casting a dark shadow over our world.
Of course, lights alone won’t solve our problems. How could they? They’re lifeless objects—I've yet to see a lamp grow legs and arms to make a difference in the world.
But perhaps they don't need to be able to move or act to make a difference.
Christmas lights and the winter season are inseparably connected. They are mutually exclusive. They represent brightness, laughter, love, and warmth. I remember delivering newspapers as a kid this time of year, passing by gardens filled with winter decorations. I’d often gaze into living rooms, feeling a rush of joy at the sight of cozy Christmas tree lights or a glowing fireplace. Lights just have this amazing ability to spread happiness without even trying. They just exist.
People can do the same. A smile to a passerby on your way to work. Letting someone go ahead of you in line. Helping an elderly person cross the street. Small things that don’t take much effort but can brighten someone’s day.
Coldplay got it right a long time ago. Lights will guide you home. And ignite your bones.
And lights will try to fix us.
