The days have been so grey lately that my light sensory Christmas decorations have been going on by 3:00 p.m. in the afternoon. I don’t mind though, those little multi coloured lights help to brighten an already dark and dull landscape.
As we now head into the darkest days of the year it is important we take with us all we need to find our way back out again. For some these darkened days spiral into despair, depression and days of such low energy they can barely climb out of bed.
The tipping point is almost here, hang on! Tuesday December 21st at exactly 10:59 a.m. E.S.T. we will arrive to the tipping point; this will be the longest night of the year and then we begin to gather more light daily.
What do we need to navigate these last couple weeks of dullness? Lights and lots of them! Cover your house with Christmas light, inside and out. I would even suggest you consider keeping a few strands of the indoor lights up until well into March. And candles, there is something healing and comforting about a flickering candle, perhaps its warmth and aroma softens the darkness and transforms it into something romantic and otherworldly.
We also need good company. Recently I have been enjoying the company of an old friend I hadn’t thought of since I was around 10 or 11 years old. The ever optimistic Francie Nolan and her Tree of Heaven in the book a Tree Grows in Brooklyn. Each evening I look forward to time with Francie and her stories of life in 1940s Brooklyn. There are many ways to connect with friends: Skype, ZOOM, Facebook, WhatsApp, or simply pick up the phone!
And, we need exercise. It is natural for us to feel less energy during these grey days. Getting out for a walk even if it is at the local mall helps to rejuvenate us and increases endorphins, dopamine, adrenaline and endocannabinoid all which are brain chemicals that help us feel happy, confident, capable, and less anxious.
There is also the need for a talk with God. Take time to pray, read scripture, meditate or listen to your favorite preacher on YouTube. Cultivating faith aids us in seeing the bigger picture and is a sure fire way to buoy our spirits.
Don’t forget to be silly during these darkened days! Intentionally adding fun and joy to our days adds brightness. I heard of a couple who went to the local toy store and bought silly string. They had a riot in their own back yard! One youth group leader brightened up everyone’s day last Sunday by letting loose a confetti cannon in the sanctuary! So, sing a song, do a little dance or draw a picture. Find a way to be creative and think outside of the box.
Finally, end each day with a fistful of gratitude. As you lay in bed, about to dose off, count five things from that day you are grateful for; by expressing gratitude we barricade the darkness from seeping in.
May you find a spark of heavenly light in every day,
Rev. Heather McCarrel
Stain Glass Lens of the 21st Century 