Diwali is celebrated by people all over the world. The beauty of Diwali is that the meaning of the holiday is universal although the stories differ according to each religion. Diwali is commonly known as the festival of lights. We light diyas and set off fireworks on the darkest night of Autumn. I remember as a child, Diwali was the one time of year I was not scolded for forgetting to turn off a light.

The true meaning of Diwali is light overcoming darkness. Good triumphs over evil, ignorance is extinguished by the light of knowledge. The meaning of Diwali remains relevant today. On a broad scale, we are being asked to show up to represent truth and wisdom in the world. Women in Iran need truth speakers in safe spaces to shed light on the ongoing abuse they suffer. Bodies that can create life need truth speakers in power to stand up for their reproductive rights in the U.S. The people of Ukraine need truth speakers to continue to tell their story to the world. People of color, those that have been disenfranchised, neglected, forgotten, marginalized, abused need truth speakers. The earth is calling for truth speakers to protect its very existence. There is darkness in the world. It can feel overwhelming. It is in the darkest of nights that we can see the most stars. Each of us is a spark of divinity. We are not alone. Together, we are many truth speakers that banish ignorance. Our collective light shines through the darkness driving out darkness.

This evening I will light a diya and celebrate the beauty of our collective light. Happy Diwali to each one of you. May the light of Diwali fill your hearts with love.

Om, Shanti, Shanti, Shanti

Kavita

‍