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Candlelight, starlight, dark skies and the universe.

by Denise Jenike March 28, 2020

      Candlelight, starlight, dark skies and the universe.

“Who said that?”

Ever heard of William L. Watkinson? Maybe not, that’s OK. Research revealed that he wrote a sermon titled “The Invincible Strategy” which was widely circulated in America in 1907. In it he attempted to calm the rhetoric of verbal attacks on undesirable behaviors to promote instead the value and importance of performing good works. “But denunciatory rhetoric is so much easier and cheaper than good works, and proves a popular temptation. Yet it is far better to light a candle than to curse the darkness.”

Gerrit Dou

Sounds like good advice, then and now, and a quiet reminder about civility. Once a necessity to literally light the darkness, now an affordable luxury, candlelight still holds a place in our hearts as it still occupies an honored place in our life for celebrations and ceremonies. 

Bringing light into the night, undeniably …”a small step for man, a giant leap for mankind” changed the history of humans, animals and the entire planet. Let’s talk about Dark Skies.

Dark Skies.

April 19-26, 2020 is dedicated to Dark Sky Week by the International Dark Sky Association, founded in 1988 and dedicated to protecting the night skies from light pollution. With designated dark sky cities, communities and parks around the world, this organization believes that it is important to be able to experience the natural night sky to reflect on, and be curious about, the universe. Did you know that Flagstaff, Arizona was the first city designated as a Dark Sky City in 2001? To learn more about this organization go to www.darksky.org

We’re not here to curse the darkness – or the lightbulb, for that matter - but to illuminate the idea that candlelight might just be the best idea to come along (again) right under our noses to remind us to turn off the electric lights, save some poPetrus van Schendel (1806-1870)wer, relax and enjoy the natural glow of candles.

Our son used to say, "let's have a simple dinner"  which meant he wanted to have dinner by candlelight. 

 “Anytime B.C. (Before Computers):

In colonial times, candlemakers, AKA: chandlers, began adding boiled bayberries, herbs or fragrant leaves to the wax before molding into candles. A pretty great idea that has come a long way since the 1300’s. With so many candle choices in today’s markets, fragrance is one of the most popular reasons people use candles in their homes. It refreshes the environment and reduces the accumulated stress from the day. It’s worth mentioning that well-made candles are affordable. The color, design and fragrance choices are all up to you.

Candlelight is part of the natural evolution of lighting inside our homes. But as we lengthen our days into the night with electricity, just because we can, we might also think about the value of a quiet evening without the computer glare. Remember life B.C., Before Computers and the 24 hour news and world reports? Might we suggest ~ Turn off the computer screen for a moment, take a look outside at the starry sky.     It’s awesome.

  Star light, star bright,
  First star I see tonight, 
  I wish I may, I wish I might,
  Have this wish I wish tonight.
  Anonymous.


Denise Jenike
Denise Jenike

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