This week marks Diwali, the Hindu Festival of Lights. Its central message is essential: light triumphs over darkness, wisdom over ignorance, and love over fear.
One of Diwali’s great stories tells of Lord Rama returning home after fourteen years of exile. The people lit thousands of lamps to welcome him, transforming the darkness.
I am moved by the idea that light is something we carry within us. I was at the airport just a few hours ago and the server waiting on me had great energy. It made me feel good even though all our interactions were about my order. She had contagious enthusiasm. Her light was shining.
Every day presents opportunities to bring light into the world. We can offer kindness especially where there is pain or discomfort.
We don’t have to illuminate the entire world. We only have to illuminate the space around us.
“Thousands of candles can be lighted from a single candle, and the life of the candle will not be shortened. Happiness never decreases by being shared.”
— Anonymous
