A Light In The Darkness

 

Due to my adventures yesterday, I’ve not been able to write a reflection for you this week. However I’d like to share with you briefly why I love lighthouses so much.

For me, lighthouses have always been a deeply spiritual symbol, and one of the greatest signs of good in humanity. I think that is in large part due to this verse:

The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it.

John 1:5

This was, of course, in reference to Christ’s birth. But it’s such a powerful statement in it’s own.

Light shines in the darkness. Hope.

Darkness has not overcome it. And never will.

Lighthouse keepers were solitary people, self-consigned to the farthest reaches of the earth with one purpose: keep the light shining. Be the beacon of hope and safety in the darkest, foggiest nights.

Point Cabrillo Lighthouse – J. Loomis

They chose to be alone, but their entire purpose was an act of service.

I guess I’ve always identified strongly with that. I’m an introvert, I prefer to be on my own most of the time. That doesn’t make me misanthropic, just different. And like the light keepers, I will devote myself to a life of service.

♥ Shannon

Point Cabrillo (Lighthouse #7)

Today was a good day, because today was a lighthouse day. I have been on a quest for the last few years to see every lighthouse on the California coast. Today marked #7, Point Cabrillo which is just south of Fort Bragg.

Accompanying me was Kate, who supplied the music and entertainment portion of our day. We “winged” the whole day pretty much, starting before 7am and getting home at about 9pm.

In our day’s journey, aside from seeing the lighthouse, we did some store browsing in Fort Bragg & Mendocino, wine tasting at Pacific Star Winery, and lunch at Patterson’s Irish Pub. (The latter reminded me strongly of Fletcher’s Pub from my book series.) We drove through the magnificent coastal redwoods, wine country, and along the Shoreline highway.

 

In short, it was a perfect day.

Returning now to the smoke-filled Central Valley is a hard come down to reality, but I have hope that it won’t be so long again until my next visit to my beloved ocean.

💛 Shannon