On Darkness, On the fierce Light. ☀️and 🌑 = 🌓?
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Right now, it does feel that the whole world seems to be going through a dark night of the soul, to quote an expression I like from Flannery O’Connor. 🌑
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I have had my own dark night of the soul, some time back, for few years. I will probably one day write about it as this experience was part of my life changing personal awakening(s). Darkness is a place I have tasted, and I have developed since, immense sensitivity & empathy towards anyone going through this rather strange experience, including when the entire world collapses into it. This is the old story of Humanity, self-destroying itself at times. Nothing new I know. It remains however hard to comprehend…like our personal collapses or dark moments.
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Today I read a quote from an old book, from Thomas Fuller, an English churchman and historian called “Pisgah-Sight of Palestine and the Confines Thereof” written in 1650! Wow, a reference to Palestine? He talks about “the night (that) is darkest just before the dawn.” Even in the deepest moments of despair & darkness, hope and a new beginning are just around the corner. Persevere and hold onto optimism. Hard to believe how relevant that quote referring to the land of Palestine from the 17th century is. This quote remains true for what is happening in the “bleeding land” as I now call it. What else of a choice do we have than to hope and persevere?
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Similarly, in Mahatma Gandhi Speech in 1947, Gandhi says “In the midst of darkness, light persists.” He calls for the enduring power of light & goodness even in the face of darkness. He emphasizes on the need to remain steadfast in one’s beliefs and actions. Strive to be a source of light and positivity in our communities he says, even during challenging times. Work towards creating positive change, i.e, Liberation & Freedom for everyone. I must believe in his approach. After all he brought liberation to India. 😊
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I love reading old speeches, or texts, to draw some historical perspective and gives me glimpses of inspiration & courage in the middle of the dust, or darkness. ☀️
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I do not want to give up or look away. I want to contribute to building a world that makes sense and that is easeful for everyone, including for oneself. What are our day-to-day actions contributing to this vision? What are mine?
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From the depth of darkness, there is a way to Light. I do not know when and how, but eventually, there will be greater Light. And we have to hold on to this tale of hope. 🌺🙏🩵