When my children were teenagers, I would keep the lights on for them when they went out. It was a way to let them know they were home. Welcome. Expected. It was assurance that things were as they left them. And made it easier to get in the door. Because the light was on…
Passing by the home of my recently deceased teacher, I see cars parked out front and his diligent students keeping his dreams alive. They are keeping the lights on for him. He will never return but his spirit lives on. His dreams live on in his students. I hear his voice constantly as I work. Reminding me to pay attention to this or that. “Did you notice this, Michelle?” “How do we deal with this condition?” “Are you awake, Michelle?”
If I can be a beacon of hope for another, I am full. If my light can light the way for another, I have kept the lights on. If I can be awake rather than sleep-walking through life, I can make a difference.