Daily Meditation for February 22, 2022

In the past month, we have gained at least one more hour of light each day. For many, having more light lifts the spirit and restores hope to the heart. Most people love to see a beautiful sunrise, and cries of delight are often heard when the sun suddenly peaks out on a cloudy day. But darkness, too, plays an important role in our lives. We need darkness to give rest to our minds and bodies, and darkness often invites silence and contemplation and deeper reflection on our life’s experiences. Scientists tell us that darkness makes our immune system work better, as it is only in the dark that our bodies produce melatonin, a hormone that fights diseases. And, of course, the moon and the stars need the darkness to be seen and enjoyed. Let us be grateful for blessings received from both the light and the dark.

By Mary Weidner, OSB