Holy Traditions – Light in the Darkness

Written by Linda Ferguson
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    cozy-winter-feast-with-family

    This is the season of Light in the Darkness as we in the northern Hemisphere move through the Winter Solstice. This year it’s an extra special Winter Solstice. The Solstice has both a full moon and a lunar eclipse on Dec. 21st. The Winter Solstice is a time of reflecting on the darkness and stillness. Use this time for your inner journey of reflection and discovery. What do you want to see more clearly that may be hidden or in darkness for you now? How can you create stillness or quiet to hear what needs to emerge or be birthed in the coming year?

    This month is a celebration of Hanukkah– the miracle that occurred in the re-dedication of the 2nd Temple in Jerusalem. A small amount of oil kept a lamp burning for 8 days. What small thing can you offer to keep people motivated at work? How can you spark their energy for those who might be tired, feeling ready to quit, or needing inspiration? The menorah has an extra candle (the shamash) to light the 8 candles. How do you light the way for others who are seeking to change in some way?

    This month is also a celebration of a child born in the darkness and cold. A star helped guide some shepherds to where the child was. They followed a light to see a miracle. What light are you providing to guide others through uncertainty or unfamiliar territory? Have you taken the time to explain something to a co-worker who is new, to show them the ropes, or help them learn something they didn’t know?

    You may not know that Bodhi Day is a celebration of when Buddha became awakened and taught others how to transcend their suffering. Siddhartha Gautama sat under a fig tree and achieved enlightenment on Dec. 8th. Perhaps you work with people who are suffering in some way- job stress or worry about losing their job. Your co-workers may be struggling with balancing work and home, challenged by projects that aren’t going well. What can you do to provide extra assistance, support or re-assurance to a co-worker or customer who is experiencing pain of some sort?

    Whether or not you are celebrating any special holiday this month, reflect on what this time of year means to you. Write down at least 3 ways you can be a Light to others who may be lonely, tired, sick, stressed, worried or challenged in some way. Set your intention in the new year to share your Light in some way at work.

    Let us know if there is a special way that you were able to touch someone’s life at work, if you were able to assist someone through their moment of Darkness.

    Peace for you this week and into 2011.

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    For more resources, see our Library topic Spirituality in the Workplace.

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    Linda is an author, speaker, coach, and consultant. Go to her website www.lindajferguson.com to read more about her work, view video clips of her talks, and find out more about her book “Path for Greatness: Spirituality at Work” Her book is available on Amazon.

    Linda Ferguson