Finding Light in Dark Times

The winter solstice, the longest night of the year, took place on December 21st. Since then, our days have been getting longer. The shift has been incremental and slow, making it difficult to remember the fact of this turning point in the season—there is more light. 

Even with the roll-out of the COVID-19 vaccine, healthcare professionals find themselves bracing for a post-holiday surge in coronavirus cases. The FDA chief warned last month that January would be a grim month for America.

As we move through these dark days together, finding moments of light and joy can be challenging. Trying moments existed well before COVID, and each of us will certainly experience periods of darkness once the virus is under control. We all experience loss and pain.

How can we find light in moments of darkness?

Remember who you are. Even if your life circumstances are in chaos or disarray, the core of who you are remains. What values do you hold dear? What is meaningful to you? Reminders of these things can offer a solid foundation from which to move through times of sorrow.

Remember your why. What gives your life a sense of purpose? What gets you out of bed in the morning? What keeps you going in times of uncertainty? For me, it’s my daughters, as well as feeling called to care for those in need.

Remember that everything is temporary. What you’re going through now will not last forever. Reminding ourselves that this too shall pass can help give us the courage to see ourselves through moments of adversity.

If you’re struggling right now, you’re not alone. Reach out to friends and family. Remind yourself of who you are and what you hold dear. And remember that there are brighter days ahead.