Objects of Light

I haven’t decorated for the holidays in longer than I can remember. But this year, my home is filled with warmth, light, and feminine energy; a direct contrast to my previous addresses where everything was dark, heavy, and masculine. When I moved to my home this summer, what I liked so much was the light - sliding glass doors, multiple windows in every room, the sun that streams in and reflects off the lake every afternoon. So I got rid of every piece of furniture that wasn’t light, in color, in weight, and in presence. That’s meant that I’ve slowly had to replace everything, and even six months later, I have mismatched nightstands, no dresser, and some interesting arrangements.

But this experience has not only allowed me to bring in only items that radiate joy, it has also taught me patience, presence, and acceptance. Just a year ago I would have maxed out credit cards ensuring that everything was done - matching - and possibly not even what I wanted - all because I wanted to feel in control, and I associated control with completion. Now, as I stand here, I am surrounded only by objects of light, I feel more balance and peace than I ever have. So for the holidays, I bought a tree, covered it in light, and then made it shine even more. And for someone who has never been one to decorate, I’d say it turned out to be even better than I could have imagined. It’s not completely symmetrical, it could probably use some more ornaments, but when I look at it, I see happiness, and happiness is always welcome.