In December I wrote about the nurturing darkness, so now, as we near the summer solstice, it is only fitting that we give attention to the light. Light from the sun makes it possible for life on this planet. Natural light from the sun is vital to the health of every living thing – either directly or indirectly. Light energy affects temperatures on land and water, biological processes (such as the relationship between predators and prey), plant photosynthesis and growth.
Light has always been a central concept for Quakers: In fact, we were originally called the Children of Light. In his writing, George Fox used the phrases “the Light in your conscience”, “in the light”, “receive the light”, “turn to the light”, and very often simply “the light”.
When early Quakers spoke about the Light, and living in the Light, they were talking about the operation of the spirit within. The Light was not God, but rather something that came from God – and it was an immense force, not a vague mental illumination.
How does this concept of light in our theology connect to our understanding of earthcare and ecology?
In this very good Quaker Speak video, “A Quaker Way to Earth Care”, Cherice Bock says:
“We as humans experience some of the light. Many of us can see by the light. We can feel the light on our skin. It keeps us warm. We can’t process all of the things that the light has to offer. We need other species in order to process all of the things that the light has to offer to our whole community. As the light comes into our community, different species and different individuals within those species process different parts of the light and are able to make possible different aspects of energy and nourishment within that ecosystem that we wouldn’t have if that species wasn’t there. All of these systems that we need function because of the light, and so humanity by ourselves can’t receive all of our nourishment without all of those other species, without the whole community working together.
It’s a place of deep belonging for humanity, that we belong here in these communities, and we can participate with the whole community of our life. We don’t have to think of ourselves as above or separate or other. As we learn how better to be part of the community, as we learn how to receive the light that we need from the other creatures, and also give the light that we have and the energy that flows through us, into caring for the world around us. Then we’re part of that community. We completely belong here. We don’t have to try to control all of it and be above nature, but we are participants and beloved members of the community.”
Light impacts all of creation, and the whole ecosystem. Humanity could not exist here without light, and all the earth processes that transform light into usable nutrients, and then back into soil. We are interdependent with other species, and we are ALL the children of light.
What do you think? Please add your thoughts to the comments!
