“Give light, and the darkness will disappear of itself.”

— Desiderius Erasmus

I have been looking forward to the Fall time change.  As an early-morning walker, I have watched the light fade to the point where the past several weeks have consisted of treks that begin in the darkness.  I have looked forward to this very morning, the one when sunlight would greet me as it lit up the autumn colors and sparked on the frosty grass.  It was no disappointment; and I found myself walking at a slightly brisker pace, possibly because I could see where my feet would land, and possibly because the light lifted my spirits and gave me new energy.  Whatever the reason might be, there is great joy in walking in the beautiful light of morning.

I thought as I walked about time changes and time zones and darkness and dawn, and I realized that miles to the west, people still lay sleeping under the night’s darkness until the return of the light.  Then I thought about the beautiful morning that greeted me and the way my spirit soared as I took in its sparkling color and promise of warmth.  I thought of the times in my own being when I have felt trapped in the sort of darkness that even sunrise cannot wash away.  I thought of the light-bearers who found their way to my cave of despair and sadness and illuminated a small corner, creating hope.  I thought of the way I was drawn to that tiny, hopeful piece of light and how small the darkness seemed by comparison.

Perhaps one morning this week I will make it a point to rise a half-hour early.  I will go outside under the dark sky and remember the times when the light seemed far away.  I will sit in the darkness and wait for the sun to rise.  I will touch the memory of the return of light to my darkest hour.  Only then will I stand and begin to walk.  I will take in the beautiful light of the sun at the moment it returns to overcome the darkness.  I will let it fill me with its hope, and I will carry that light with me into my day.  I will seek the dark corners that need illumination, and I will not be afraid.  I have been with the darkness and I have reveled in the light.  With gratitude in my heart, I will pick up the torch and join the ranks of those who bring light to dispel the darkness.