A lit candle represents the Divine Light that enlightens everyone on our planet.

Light is the very sustenance of spiritual and earthly life.

On the grand scale, without the light of our sun we would not be able to live on planet earth. There would be no process of photosynthesis to turn sunlight into plant material, the basis of our diet for both vegetarians and meat eaters, alike. (After all, the animals we eat need to make their flesh by eating plants.)

When a candle on your altar is lit, as during the Christmas season, the flame provides both heat and warmth, another of the requirements we need on the planet to ward off the chill and in early days, to scare off predators at night. And what is more nostalgic then a blazing campfire promoting camaraderie and the telling of stories and tales?

In earlier days, and still in tribal cultures without a written language, it is most likely that many traditions and tales from the culture and history of the tribe are passed down by the younger members listening carefully to the tales of the elders while sitting around the flaming light of a central campfire.

Candle light has been with us for a long time in our history and even if we do not 'need' it today because of electric lighting, it adds ambience to any gathering or event.

Keep your candles burning brightly and think about some of the ways light and heat have benefited humankind through the centuries. And, why not enjoy the special delights of scented candles, brightly colored as a special centerpiece on altars or holiday tables this year!

Candle light shining bright
Reminds us of the star that night
That pointed out the newborn babe
Still living in our hearts today
Ever with us, every way.

Article and photo credit by Susan Helene Kramer

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For offline reading

Meditation Lessons for Teens and Adults
More than 70 offerings, from guided meditation techniques to on-the-go stress relief and relationship meditations interspersed with verse, and a section of special occasion prayers. 114 pages.

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Meditation for all Kids
Sitting, walking, dance and group circle meditations, along with positive affirmations, verses and benefits of meditation for kids of all ages and abilities in a 100 page book with illustrations.