All throughout human history, people have been captivated by the pursuit of happiness. The pressure to have, be, and do whatever makes us happy can be a relentless, never ending spin on the proverbial hamster wheel. Exhausted by the process, many will settle for a quick fix, but instant gratification can only take us so far. In the end, we’re right back where we started, wondering if we’ll ever find contentment. The journey toward joy is not an easy path. It is convoluted with bumps, snags, and obstacles that blindside us when we least expect it.
Thankfully, we know coming to the yoga mat can help in some ways. If it’s not the quest for enlightenment, it is a desire to eliminate aches and pains in the body that rob us of feeling good. Some take it a step further and seek out a spiritual guru, one who will help bring them from darkness to light. After all, we want to experience the light of life, because if there is darkness in our lives, how could we possibly be happy?
While we understand darkness to be suffering and anguish of the worst kind, we must honor the fact that the dark is as natural and organic as the light. Neither exists without the other. While we equate enlightenment as the absence of dark, we can still be enlightened in the presence of darkness.
The Bible quotes Isaiah as saying, “The people who walk in darkness will see a great light; light shines on those who live in a land of deep darkness.”
Gandhi said, “In the midst of darkness, light persists.”
Without darkness, it would be impossible to even know light exists, and vice versa. We must experience one to understand the other.
Many of us are either taught to be, or are innately afraid of the dark, but embracing our darkness won’t make us bad people or promote evil deeds. Take a look around the room you are sitting in right now. You’ll see light areas and dark corners. Is one worse than the other? It’s as simple as asking yourself the question, “Is the glass half-full, or is it half-empty?” Do you see a half-empty, dimly lit world, or will you turn your gaze toward the light in life, especially in the midst of darkness?
The following meditation can help you embrace darkness so your inner light may shine on you, and out to those around you.
Begin in a comfortable position, in a safe and quiet room, preferably in the dark. Close your eyes and witness the complete absence of light. In your mind’s eye, study the dark. Notice any sensations that arise. Do you feel afraid, helpless, or ashamed? Continue to explore the darkness without judgment or fear.
Next, bring your attention to the place within you that is closest to your soul. To connect with this place, you might recall a fond memory, a place in nature that you love, or a moment in time when you felt completely happy. Appreciate the genuine feeling of connectedness with the light of your soul. If the feeling fades, or you become distracted, keep trying. Continue drawing your attention inward.
Now, imagine the light of your soul shining upon the dark spaces that surround you. It can be as simple as brightening the scary, dark corners of your mind, or shedding light on challenges in your life. Perhaps you imagine shining your light around the globe, reaching out to people in need.
While darkness will always exist, your spirit doesn’t have to be darkened by its influence. St. Francis of Assisi believed that all the darkness in the world cannot extinguish the light of a single candle, and it’s the same with the light of your spirit. When when you realize this, the light in your life, and possibly the light around the entire world, becomes so much more evident.
In your darkness, let your light lead the way, and may you live happily ever after.
Thanks Jill! I feel enlightened. Hugs to you.