I find the spirit in the lights during the holidays—Christmas tree lights, lights decorating homes and gardens. candlelight. Twinkling or still, they set a mood for me.
When I still lived with my parents, and maybe even once or twice after I started college, I loved sleeping on the couch by the Christmas tree, bathing in the lights overnight. I never tire of parks with Christmas light displays, decorated yards, and candles arranged in wreaths.
Tiny lights carry far in the dark. December is the darkest month of the year and becomes a special moment for teeny, tiny lights to be brilliant.
The lights also invite stillness.
I haven’t been the most cheerful, joyful woman on the block this year, nor last year. My time has been packed tightly with obligations, goals, and grief, leaving little room or desire to decorate. Still, I pause at a lit tree. I slow as I pass decorated yards. I make time to walk through a Christmas display.
Christmas Eve Stillness
Last night, I allowed myself to be still for a moment at the annual candlelight service at my church. I’ve been so tied up with those obligations and goals that I haven’t even attended regular services in over a month, but I knew there would be a giant lit Christmas tree… and candles.
Waiting to light the small candle Mary Ellen handed me as I entered felt overly long, but the carols, and eventually the dark and the stillness, settled into my bones.
Tears welled, but I didn’t allow them to fall. I didn’t laugh or sigh out loud as a swirl of emotions moved through me. I allowed the stillness and I sat still with it. It was everything I needed to carry my load through the rest of this season. 
I appreciated the candles that were lit in memory of those from our church who passed this year. I found comfort in the reminder to make space for all the feelings this season brings—even the ones that aren’t full of cheer and bubbling with joy.
When the sanctuary lights dimmed and small flames filled the space, I found the spirit in the lights: peace in the tree lights, comfort in the candlelight, and joy in the colorful glow of the circle window.
May you find spirit and peace in the lights of the season.
©Pennie Nichols. All Rights Reserved. 2025.
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