Embracing the Darkness: Lessons from the Shortest Days

In the northern hemisphere, we’re approaching the shortest day and the longest night of the year. This shift, a result of the Earth’s axial tilt, isn’t just a celestial event; it’s a poignant reminder of life’s cycles. As daylight wanes and shadows stretch, we often find ourselves contemplating losses, mirroring the diminishing light.

Darkness, for me, has been a profound teacher. Deprived of sight, I’ve learned to depend more on my other senses, discovering sounds and interpretations that daylight obscures. Darkness unveils mysteries, highlighting the vast unknowns that surround us.

Nighttime often symbolizes loss. This year’s longest night resonates deeply with personal grief. I’ve lost dear friends, including Thomas, whose sudden passing last year left a void. I find solace in speaking to him, as I do with my grandfathers, whom I barely knew. These conversations, though one-sided, offer a unique comfort.

But not all losses are grim. Over time, I’ve shed my illusion of control, a realization that brings its own kind of freedom. Fear and anger often stem from this delusion. Recognizing this helps me appreciate life as a gift, not an entitlement.

These short days and long nights prompt introspection. What can darkness teach me? Engulfed in its embrace, I learn to perceive differently, relying less on vision and more on subtler senses. This shift challenges my need for clarity and certainty, allowing me to experience life’s ambiguities.

Darkness invites us to question the primacy of sight. In its absence, perception becomes nuanced. The craving for definition and certainty fades, making way for a slower, more thoughtful exploration of the world. Settling into this unknowing state, I find a conducive space for learning and understanding life’s deeper messages.

Questions to Ponder

• How have your experiences in periods of darkness or loss contributed to your personal growth, and in what ways have they altered your perception of the world around you?
• In times when you’ve had to rely less on sight, how have your other senses heightened your understanding of your environment? Can these experiences change the way you interpret everyday life?
• How do you find comfort or peace in the unknown or uncertain aspects of life? Can embracing these moments lead to a deeper understanding or acceptance of life’s complexities?