Candles have been part of our lives since the time humans discovered fire. They have provided light in the darkness long before electricity. They are used in several ceremonies to symbolize beacons in the night, a joining of individuals to one another. They are used by some to indicate the presence of an entity that can not be seen. But have you ever thought about why you light a candle?
What is the reason that we take this object and light the wick to create a feeling within ourselves? Some light a candle to create harmony. The combination of the flame and scent settles a person to a point of calmness and peace. The candle is used as a point of focus causing one to be present at that point. It can provide a way for someone to block out all the noises of life and simply focus on that one flame. The combination of seeing the flame, smelling the scent and feeling the breath can create harmony for some individuals. By taking these few moments each day can rejuvenate an individual.
Some people use candles as a way to reflect. Lighting a candle in a specific location or on a certain day provides some people the chance to reflect on the day, the day, or the memory of someone. Every March 20th I light a candle in memory of my aunt. Her birthday is on that day while mine is on March 22. Growing up, we celebrated our birthdays together. Every year since she passed, I light a candle on her birthday and sit for a few minutes and conjure up memories of our past birthdays. It allows me time to reflect on the impact she had on my life in a unique and special way.
Life can be hectic with dashes of chaos sprinkled in. Candles bring relaxation into our lives. There has always been a connection with watching a fire and relaxing. The fire can be fire outdoors while camping, in a fireplace on a cold winter’s night, or the flame from a candle. There is just something about fire that creates a sense of peace. Michelle K. stated “I only light candles that will help put me in the mood I want to be in. Mostly relaxing, after all, I do work at a school.” The smells a burning candle gives off can create an environment that is warm and inviting. Fragrances can remind us of a certain occasion, location or memory. “I just use the pleasant smell,” Janie S. stated. They help us to take a moment, even if it just for a few minutes, to stop, relax and enjoy the moment.
We all have different reasons for burning candles. They provide joy in our life. Whatever your reason for burning there is joy and comfort every time you put a match to the wick and create a single flame.
