The Season of Light

From Taylor Hickman, Director of Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Justice:

In this season, the invitation to plant seeds of intention is ripe. The New Year in the Gregorian calendar is like the turning of a page. While January 1 often feels somewhat arbitrary, the Solstice (and the New Moon!) provide concrete moments of change and renewal. This renewal that marks the coming of “more light” is exciting and important.

Our students are highly attuned to the impact and significance of light. We learn how candles are made, the chemical composition of fire, how electricity works, and why we see celebrations of light across cultures, folding in the micro to macro impact of giving light, in myriad ways. 

At this time of year, I hope we all have a chance reflect on how we can bring or share light. I hope we can consciously approach our time, energy, and commitments with love and grace: for ourselves, and extending outward if we have the capacity. It’s a tough time, as ever, to be attuned; a tough time to love others; and a tough time to simply get by. And if you're anything like me, a tough time to exist, simply because it is so cold. Yet there are so many ways to relieve and address our tensions: by slowing down, spending time together, and providing light.

Wishing all a happy solstice and a happy holiday season!