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Many cultures around the world celebrate light in various forms, often symbolizing renewal and the triumph of good over evil. The hopefulness of light means much to many, as it has to us at Matthews Hall, for many years.
Our annual Celebration of Light included The Santa Lucia procession, a cherished tradition celebrated primarily in Sweden and parts of Italy, that embodies the universal themes of light, hope, and community. It evokes a sense of warmth and togetherness that transcends cultural boundaries. It serves as a reminder of the enduring human spirit that seeks light in times of darkness, making it a meaningful celebration for all who cherish the values of kindness, resilience, and the promise of brighter days.
We instinctively seek light when in darkness. This search is both organic and poetic. In cultures around the world light symbolises love, knowledge and intellectual thought. It is no wonder we seek it. Light opposes darkness which can symbolize hostility, fear and ignorance. As a result, we all seek to connect with light, especially in darker times.
Many are fortunate to have access to spiritual, emotional and physical light.
In this, the season of giving and care, the question should be, how do we find a twinkle of light, of love or of hope for those whose access to light is, for any reason, diminished?
We can share our available light. We bring our joy with us wherever we go. We smile at one another, acknowledge one another and in doing so, we share our light. The process of sharing our light permits others to grasp the light that we make available.
Our sources of available light are many; friendships, family, learning, school and experience.
The available light can be perspective. How is my way of viewing or understanding something influenced with available light? It can be a mindset. How are my beliefs or assumptions influenced with available light? It can be support. The encouragement we receive when things are difficult.
By being these sources, we then make our light available – willingly, kindly and appropriately paced.
As we prepare to enjoy the holiday season, let us be mindful of where our light may be needed and share where we can.
Christopher White, Head of School