One of the things that I like most about this time of year is how everything is so lit up and illuminated.
The world seems to be ablaze around us, lighting our way and emitting feelings of joy and celebration in an eruption of kaleidoscope colors. The brilliance, creativity and symbolism of the holiday season is expressed in a wash of lights that illuminates the colder, darker days of winter and restores a sense of peace and possibility for the new year ahead. Christmas trees and seasonal lighting displays invite us into the season with their use of color and play of light. The "Festival of Lights," otherwise known as Hanukkah, is captured by the symbolic lighting of candles, as is the celebration of Kwanzaa. On New Year's Eve, the crystal-encrusted balls that drop in Times Square and in various locations around the globe are bright, shiny, glowing objects that usher in the year ahead. These crystal balls represent promise, and brilliance, and wishes for renewed happiness. Fireplaces are lit disseminating not only warmth, but also serenity and radiance. Camera flashes fire and twinkle turning "lighting up the moment" into pictures and memories. All the elements of the season seem to come together in a surge of light and life to remind us to look, feel, see, experience, and participate in the world around us.
As we light up our homes, our hearts and our minds this holiday season, I am especially drawn to exploring WHY light fires up hope and promise and renewal in us.
Clearly, if there is no light, if a flame goes out, it becomes dark. If we cannot see our way, we could potentially and metaphorically become lost. The concept of lighting our path, or the light at the end of the tunnel, in and of itself, is filled with optimism. The light at the end of the tunnel is always available to us; all we have to do is remember not to build the tunnel in the first place! When we look at something in the light of day it is to examine it for what it really is and for what truth we find in it. Only light can drive out darkness. I love watching a sunrise, not only because it is dramatic and vivid, but also because it ushers in a new day and a new beginning, washing it with light and luminosity and possibility.
When we feel lighter, whether we have lost weight, or the weight of the world is off of our shoulders, we generally feel better. Lightness and weightlessness usually mean that we are being less serious and more playful in our lives and therefore we are less stressed. Being "lighter" physically or mentally can in fact light up our lives, freeing us of negative thoughts and allowing in more laughter and reflection. Projecting a lighter mood, or an inner glow, is contagious, resulting in higher energy and a more positive outlook, not only for ourselves, but also for those around us. If our energy is high we will attract people with similar high energy levels.
Light is one of our greatest resources. Light, especially in the glow of a fire can mesmerize, igniting our ability to see and also unlocking our passions and desires. I am captivated when sitting in front of my fireplace. The flames draw me in restoratively, almost speaking to me, as they seem to dance with fluidity and a rich depth of color.
Finding our light illuminates the positives and the possibilities. In so doing, it requires us to be seen and also to realistically see ourselves. In this season of lights, may your reflection be one of renewal and inspiration.
Randi Levin CPC, founder & CEO, Randi Levin Coaching – is a nationally recognized transitional life strategist, Fortune 500 keynote, author, and reinvention expert. Randi supports women in becoming legends in their own lives! She works with emerging entrepreneurs and women in transition to redefine their legacy so that they can move from wanting success to living successfully. Randi is a legacy catalyst employing the power of today to curate, design, and drive choice and limitless growth. She is a relatable resource and an action-oriented coach building upon her 15 years in Corporate America, her tenure as a stay-at-home super mom, and her successful reinvent and pivot as an entrepreneur and sought-after life strategist. Randi Levin Coaching is widely quoted and featured in top media outlets and she is regularly a featured guest expert on podcasts, radio, and women’s panels. You may have seen her quoted or as a contributor in Thrive Global, HuffPost, Reader’s Digest, Business Insider, American Express OPEN Forum, Working Mother Magazine, Better After 50, or Covey Club. Her workshops have been featured in The Wall Street Journal and Randi is the creator of The Personal Success Accelerator System and a contributing author in the anthology series Get RESULTS!