The lamp in the minimalist restaurant still lingers in the dark night of my dreams. The contrast between black and white is clear, the hint of what could be beyond leaves me with a mystery. I close my eyes and think back, what did I see beyond, if anything? At that moment, I felt the sense of being alone and on the outside. I knew I had something I could offer. I also understood the reality of being on the outside, undeserving, and without hope.
At one point or another, every living being experiences what it means to be alone. From the earliest moment of being abandoned by our caregivers, we knew. The surprise of their return was sweet even as the etching on my heart remained. The intense memories of that time are now understood in the context of what it means to come of age. Paul’s observation stands out as a stark reminder; “In one way or another, God makes sure that we all experience what it means to be outside so that he can personally open the door and welcome us back in.” (Romans 11.32)
There are reminders, proof truths, that we were never as alone as we felt we were. I believe every child is loved, even when the older people in the room do not know how to show it. I have experienced Divine love in ways I never imagined. Each reminds me that I belong, and I am loved, even in the darkness of the night.
Hope is alive within us. It is easy to give in to the overwhelming sense of darkness. The lamp reminded me of those emotions. It also took me to the truth that I can choose to reflect Divinity. I have the option to embrace the light and light Divine kindness, care, and compassion are the source of what I reflect in the moment.
Life is filled with darkness and light which challenges it. In the lamp’s shadows, I am reminded my choice comes with the dawn. Today will reveal what I embrace.
