I love light displays this time of year.  It’s such a festive approach to the long nights and often gloomy days.  I especially appreciate seeing them on my way to work when it’s still dark in the morning; it gives me a positive way to start the day.

This trend usually starts in October as we’re gearing up for Halloween.  Then once Daylight Saving Time ends then there is even more time in the evening to see what creative ideas people come up with.  Every week there are more displays on homes and businesses as we get closer to Christmas.  Finally, there are those stalwart folks who then transform the holiday lights into decorations for Valentine’s Day.

I think we inherently realize our need for light during a dark period.  I mean this in a literal sense, as we are aware of the possibility of seasonal depression (also known as the winter blues).  But it can also be taken metaphorically, as there is a universal human need to seek out art, beauty, and joy.

It also speaks to our ability to appreciate what we already have during times of deprivation.  We may not be able to do what we’d like right now or engage in the sort of activities we are used to this time of year but we can savor the small sparks of brightness.  Taking a walk to view neighborhood lights, reading a good book with a cup of tea while listening to music, or reaching out to family and friends on a Zoom call.

And so I am thankful for those who design and execute these decorations.  I admire the tenacity to share a message of producing good from a less than ideal situation.  It’s like building a snow sculpture after a blizzard, or making art out of a bunch of found junk—it’s that timeless idea of taking the lemons you are given and transforming them into lemonade.

And that, my friends, sums up what I feel is the message of hope as we end this year and eagerly anticipate a fresh start in 2021.  There’s no point in reiterating all the bad stuff we’ve seen in 2020; it’s not like we’re going to forget anytime soon—nor should we try to sweep it under the rug and deny the pain and suffering.

But let’s also remember that this same 2020 brought us such events as drive by parades at nursing homes to celebrate birthdays for residents.  Drive-in tailgate graduation events.  People sewing masks and leaving them on their porches with messages like “take what you need”.  Love bombing someone with cards through the mail.  Outdoor serenades for those under quarantine.  Communities coming together to provide food, clothing, and toys to those in need.  

And of course the tireless determination of our medical professionals and other essential workers to continue with the battle even in the face of adversity.  Let’s celebrate the resiliency of the human spirit and our ability to rise to the occasion.  

Remember the words of the traditional proverb:  It is better to light a candle than to curse the darkness.