Remembering, Healing and Hoping
- Give light and the darkness will disappear of itself.
Erasmus
Light a Candle
For centuries people around the world have burned candles in remembrance of loved ones who have died, as a way of healing the past and bringing hope for the future. Lighting a candle is viewed as a sacred ritual in many different traditions and religions.
There is a soothing, healing effect in lighting a candle. A solitary candle brings light in the darkness; it is also a symbol of the human spirit. Lighting a candle can be used as a meditative tool. The simple ritual of lighting a candle and watching the hypnotic flickering flame is calming and relaxing.
During times of sorrow or times of challenging, lighting a candle can give you something to do, a way of focusing your thoughts, intension or prayers on a problem or a person.
Remembering at the Holidays, Anniversaries and Other Special Dates
Holidays, anniversaries and other special dates can be difficult times for those who have lost a loved one, whether it is the first holiday season after the death, the fifth anniversary of a loss or the twentieth. One simple and meaningful way of remembering a loved one on these challenging dates is to light a candle with a special focus, intension or prayer.
Online Light a Candle Site
An online candle lighting page has been set up for the Death, Dying and Bereavement site as a way of remembering those who have died this year. The Candle lighting will be available as a link on our site throughout the holiday seasons and beyond for you to light a candle in memory of, for hope or for healing. The page is made possible by the Gratefulness.org website
You are invited to light a candle to remember a loved one, a lost friend, a past relationship, a cherished pet, or other significant loss or losses that you may have experienced in the past or are currently be experiencing.
Begin by taking a moment to slow down, focus on your intention and decide the reason you are lighting your candle. Then click on the "Light a Candle" link above or below to enter the site. You will be guided step by step through the candle lighting process.
Light a Candle
Note: The candle you light will stay lit for 48 hours. You can return to visit your memory candle or candle for hope. You may also want to look at the candles, messages and remembrances left by others and take a moment to hold these hopes and memories in your heart. When you leave the site:
- Go within every day and find the inner strength so that the world will not blow your candle out.
Katherine Dunham
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© 2006. Kirsti A. Dyer MD, MS, FT. Licensed for use to About.com
