An Insight

Light murklins.

For much of the time, "making it" through the day or the week--or perhaps just the meeting or the errand--consumes the focus. Concentrate on "getting through," or even "just getting by." Delving further, however, through what exactly is status quo being maintained? Challenges? Tough times? Relational issues? How are such problems defined?

Two weeks ago, I strolled into a major commercial building, grateful to get out of the disagreeably cold and windy street. I was there for job training, in preparation for the challenges of working as a professional. As I waited with a group of trainees for the elevator, a television in the area was proclaiming what was likely "the worst natural disaster in the world."

Tens of hundreds of thousands were affected in Haiti, in the brief instant of an earthquake's devastation. The people that were left, dazed and shell-shocked, had an enormous challenge to face--with nowhere to begin. News has been broadcast around the clock of the supplies and manpower being pushed to the stricken Caribbean country, and its seemingly futile effects on destruction so epic.

As the technologically advanced, materially blessed nations around the world are struggling to channel resources into the tiny country, the Haitians, with their scarce supplies and depleted population are helping each other, sharing what they have, working to support those around them. To give up would be easy. The daunting task at hand is unimaginable from countless comfortable homes across this nation.

It is going to continue to be a struggle for Haiti to recuperate from the earthquake of January 12, 2010. However, in dark moments, light can glimmer, spread, and grow unlike at any other time. During the day, with the sun shining, or with lights on around the house or apartment or office, a little light is hardly to be missed. but cut the lights and a little light is appreciated, there is a draw to it.

Whether the challenge is rebuilding a city, a nation, or a life from scattered piles of what used to be, or "surviving" school or work, inside of it the outlook tends to be dark and bleak.

Light murklins. That is where this comes full circle. "Murklins" is a little-used adjective meaning "in the dark." A "light in the dark" is what i want to be. Jesus said, "I am the light of the world," and "let your light shine before men."

The world is dark and needs a light. I am a light. Light murklins.