In the darkness of night, our senses on high alert, there is a feeling of anticipation. Is it the anticipation of peace and quiet or anticipation driven by anxiety for the unknown.
Within a split second, when you light a candle or click on that night light – there is a feeling of safety merely driven by sight. Our mind tricked, that all will be all right.
Have you noticed that when you look at a lit candle, the flame itself does not cast a shadow. It is because the flame is self-luminous and cannot be blocked by any other light or object. In the same way, let me ask you to reflect on this – what source are you using to fill your mind, body and soul with?
Self-confidence and introspection are based on taking the time to identify with who you truly are. What or who are you basing your identity on?
From a spiritual perspective we find our identity in Jesus Christ:
Then Jesus declared, “I am the bread of life. Whoever comes to me will never go hungry, and whoever believes in me will never be thirsty.
When Jesus spoke again to the people, he said, “I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness but will have the light of life.” (John 6:35; John 8:12)
On the other hand, when we place our self-confidence and identity in the norms of the world, keep in mind – that this is an ever-changing, highly influenced, norm-storm that becomes exhausting to follow.
The capacity of the brain to process information is based on cognitive capacity for one. Cognitive capacity is used to manage and process information – far too often this capacity can be so overwhelming and overloaded that the result can be seen in the effect it has on our daily lives.
The effect of brain overload can be seen affecting our mood, our sleep patterns, our decision-making capacity and ultimately, our zest for life. When we feel overwhelmed, just like the darkness that bring about certain emotions – so does a diminished cognitive ability influence our daily lives.
How do we then live in light?
- Keep a journal – record your ups and downs
- Make space in your journal to record action steps
- Counter the negative with a positive affirmation
- Change your narrative (example: I have failed BUT I am not a failure)
- Intentionally record the effect people that you surround yourself with, have on you
- Recognise the “dump” or “deal” moments. Do I “dump” the idea and only comment when I have all the facts, or can I “deal” with it effectively
Focus on light:
Let us take a moment to reflect on the effect of light vs darkness.
During Christmas celebrations – in many cities there is great anticipation created for the launch of “switching on of the Christmas lights.” Our local Municipality even publish this anticipated event widely on social media and in local newspapers.
On the night of the event, individuals, families, and friends gather together in unity for an event that bring about a heightened feeling of comfort and joy. The array of colours, shapes and sounds that trigger memories and serotonin in the brain. Serotonin is responsible for happiness and calmness.
Introspection:
What are you doing to counteract darkness with light?
How can you change the narrative (story) you tell yourself to induce serotonin that bring about living in light rather than in darkness.