On this special day of the year -- the darkest day, the day of the longest night-- it was fitting that I often enjoyed the presence of light. At 5:30 am, I began my day by doing my usual morning reading and writing, but this time by the light of two candles. I always have candles burning in the apartment at this season of the year, but this morning they were my only light. (See picture, above left.) All was dark and still as I turned the pages of my book and tapped on the computer keyboard; the fluttering candle flames brought all the light I needed. Then, around 1:00 pm, I settled down for a lovely lunch, lit by my favorite floor lamp. (See picture, above right.) I set up a card table in the living room, draped a white table cloth over it, placed some holiday flowers in the center, and sat down to read some Dickens (“The Cricket on the Hearth”) and enjoy a grilled sandwich, steamed broccoli, and a glass of excellent ale. The lamplight looked golden as it spread itself across the chic-looking table. Then, around 4:15, I bundled up and walked across the park to the bookstore. The late sunlight was beautiful in the sky as it spread out in shades of rose and lavender behind a puffy bank of dark clouds in the west. On the way back from the store, the park lamps were lit, giving a glow to the walk that warmed me up considerably. It was an agreeable way to head into the darkest night of the year.
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