My husband and I have the Hue app that controls our downstairs lights in our entertainment room. When my husband first suggested that we should get this system, I was not fully for it. I did not think I was really going to want to control the colors of the lights, the vibrancy, or the mood. I thought turning on the light switch on and off would suffice. After a few months of being able to personalize my environment to my liking and needs, it grew on me rather quickly.
There is a special lighting scene for reading that makes this hobby of mine a lot more enjoyable and easier on my eyes. There is an energize scene that illuminates cooler colors to reinvigorate my energy. There is a scene when I am ready to relax that brings a calm and peace. There are scenes that represent the Savanna sunset, the Arctic aurora, a Spring Blossom, and a Tropical twilight. This particular system has grown on me and has served me well over the last year or so.
This past Sunday at church, I was reminded of this idea of light and how during the holiday season not everyone is living a season where “all is bright”. It can actually become a very dark season for some because what is lacking or what is missing in life becomes even more evident. We see families happily together, Hallmark pictures being taken, Pinterest decorations being crafted, endless amounts of money being spent, vacations of a lifetime being adventured, but this is not everyone’s reality rather many people’s fantasy.
I am being challenged this Christmas season to choose present over perfect, to be a present light than a perfect light.
Just like my Hue lighting system, I want to be a present light by choosing to light and warm up a room based on the needs of those that are in it. I truly believe we can only be present lights when we are aware of the needs of others and not just focused on our own. It truly begins at home whoever we share space with; it is the easiest to be stingy and selfish with our light with those that are closest to us.
This world does not need perfect lights where it feels artificial, fake, and forced.
This world is looking for people who will be present lights that will bring warmth, comfort, and resource that is personalized for that person’s season and needs.
This is the miracle and greatest gift that we can be for others this Christmas season.
Whatever you are going through, I encourage you to find your light and simply be present.