The Path of Holy Darkness

I enter the candle labyrinth, circling through its saucer-like base. I then meander into the cylindrical body of the candle. As I walk the inward journey, the path leads to a tight spiral followed by short turns and a downward curve before resuming onward. Then I circle ‘round the rim of the candle, dip into the well that surrounds the wick, and wind my way into the flame. Here, I pause to ponder the darkness of this season. Winter now upon us, the slanting rays and short days are part of Nature’s cycle. So often, I long for the returning light that promises warmer days to come. Light is commonly perceived as that which is good, refined, or divine, whereas darkness is frequently equated with evil, ignorance, or treachery. Yet on a Winter’s night, the gentle glow of candlelight lends warmth and mystery to the surrounding darkness. As I walk the outward journey, I honor the holy darkness that wraps us all in sacred mystery.

For all that is,