november nights

The light outside was rapidly dimming. How, I thought to myself, did the glory of autumn fade so fast? What happened to the long shadows of the setting sun? Day had instantly become night with barely any warning.

I looked out my window, the darkness broken by the light of my neighbour’s kitchen. I felt like a voyeur as I observed her sitting at her kitchen table typing away at her computer. I could see her dog wandering around and her counters littered with the day's dishes. Feeling exposed, I quickly looked away and lowered my blind. If I can see her as I stand at my sink surely she can see me too. 

I moved around the main floor and covering each window so I can hide from the darkness of the outside world. My home is a sanctuary. My place to retreat from the noise.

The darkness of November sucks me inside and obscures the outside world.

As much as the month seems extra dark with its short days, grey weather and bland surroundings there is comfort in the dim lights, the soft music and the chance to curl up on the sofa without apology. The long November nights are like a permission slip to rest. To go to bed early. To fill my cup.

I lit a candle. It flickered gently on the table and the faint scent of vanilla filled the air. Its flame burned brightly as it cast a warm glow around the room. I know at this time of year I can’t recreate the long shadows of the setting sun but I can find ways to bring light into my home. It reminded me that even when Mother Nature has retreated into the darkness I am cosy, warm, safe and full of love.

The simple act of lighting a candle.

I stand at the stove and stir the soup that I’ve made for dinner. Comfort in a bowl. Fuel for now. Fuel for later. 

Fill the belly.

I laugh with one of my boys at a funny memory. We dance hysterically around the kitchen. 

Feed the soul. 

My feet are cosy in my slippers. My head warm in my toque that is now a permanent fixture on my head. My legs tingle with the memory of this morning’s workout. 

Feel the body. 

I curl up on the sofa with a book. I can feel the weight of the blanket over my legs. A cup of tea in hand. The soft glow of the lamp beside me. I get lost in the words on each page. 

Enrich the mind.

The long November nights will soon be replaced by the festive lights of December. A month of busy. A month of bustle. Calendars filled with social events. Thoughts preoccupied with gift giving. Wrapping up the last pieces before the arrival of the New Year. Rushing to finish it all before the holidays. 

As much as the darkness of November always catches me by surprise, I am grateful for my retreat from the outside world. Grateful for the long evenings to feed my soul and body. And, grateful for the flicker of the candle that lights my way. in the darkness and a deep breath to retreat from the outside world for a bit.

In the darkness there is always light.

What do you do when the nights are dark and seem endless?

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