I’m excited because this weekend we’re going to buy our Christmas tree. But – not only that – the house will be decorated – with candles and lights.

I love it – because on these short days – when we are in so much darkness – those lights just make me feel so much better.

Coming home – out of the cold and darkness – to be welcomed by that light – cheers our hearts and souls.

I know some my think it’s still a little early – but – “Maybe we start Christmas early – not because we are rushing the season – but because we could use a little extra warmth and light right now”.

On these days – when darkness closes in so fast – it’s easy to grumble – and even feel frustrated – at the lack of sunlight – but as someone put it – “It’s better to light a candle – than curse the darkness”.

We can’t do anything about those ‘dark winter days’ – but – even a small bit of light – chases that darkness away.

In my life – as dark times have come – I have needed to – ‘light a candle’ – be kind to myself – and stay hopeful – and have found that as I do so – the darkness diminishes. And I have been so grateful – for those who have come alongside – and shone a light for me too.

We all have times of darkness – and I love the thought that we are lights for one another.

And this quote expresses it so well I think – “We are all lights in the darkness for one another. When one light goes out – it makes it much more dark for the rest of us. The human eye can see a single candle from four miles away. You never know when your light is the only light someone can see”.

I sincerely hope that my life has been – and still is – a light in someone’s darkness.

That in some way – “In a world that often feels cold and harsh – I can – choose to be the light that reminds others goodness still exists. Be the reason someone believes in pure hearts – in genuine kindness – and in souls that expect nothing in return. And may my actions – words and presence – reflect compassion and sincerity.

For – you never know – how deeply your small acts of love and kindness might heal someone’s heart – or restore their faith in humanity”.

And so – as the lights in our house go up this weekend – I determine to keep shining as brightly as I can – and hopefully bring – love – joy – and hope – to others on the way.

Blessings – Lois