Renewing the Flame of the Soul During the Holiday Season — December 4, 2017

Epstein

“Gratitude can transform common days into thanksgivings, turn routine jobs into joy, and change ordinary opportunities into blessings.” – William Arthur Ward

At times in our life, the flame of life in our soul goes out. Not too long ago, I found that my flame of light had done so. I found myself trying to write, but the words were all drained from my pencil. Leaving the page blank waiting to come back to life again. In those long days, I sat silent and empty. People would say that this state was temporary. “Who the hell are they, anyway?” I thought.

Those words offered no hope, and I learned how to cry on my pillow. Only to wake up and put on a smile. More days holding back the tears. Pretending that everything was okay. Even when inside my flame of was dying.

But the day came when a warm hand appeared. It brought me back to a familiar place, Grace House. A supportive home set in a residential neighborhood. Grace House has brought me structure, along with stability and support.

During my time here, I have been able to make some lasting friendships. Lately, I’ve grown close to one of the housemates. At times it has grown to feel like an extended family. We are always there for each other. In the good times and in those times of crisis to hold each other’s hand, to lend a sympathetic ear, and even share a few tears.

My friend has shown me unconditional love, understanding and gratitude. That gratitude became a powerful catalyst for my happiness. It was the spark needed to light the flame of light in my soul, to bring it back to life.

Now I have no concerns about that flame, and I am grateful again. Now is the time for thankfulness for all of our benefits and the blessings. A time for reflection upon what I am thankful for. As we go into the days ahead filled with a holiday spirit. Let us all try to give some gratitude back to those people, like my friend, and those places, like Grace House, that have supported us.

Each of us has cause to meditate on our deep gratitude to all the individuals who provide us with that spark. The spark that creates the flame of life in our souls. After all it’s that gratitude that allows us to send that energy back, to this time be a vessel to send that flame of life to another soul.