Leave a Light On

Leave a Light On

Remember when you were a teenager leaving the house for a night out? Your parents’ last words as you went out the door were, “We’ll leave the light on for you.” Think about that. So what if they did or didn’t leave the light on? Their words were really more of a verbal hug. They cared about you – wanted you to know it – and applied the hug with kind words.

With 2023 still being young, there’s still time to start something new! Why not “leave the light on” for someone?!

First, learn who needs to know that someone cares. Ask friends, family, or colleagues if they know of someone who’s hit a rough patch or lives alone, and simply needs some help–it doesn’t have to be financial.

Next, consider what you have to offer. Perhaps you might have some leftovers from dinner, or an hour on a weekend to some light housekeeping for someone, or maybe your teenagers are well and able to operate a lawn mower or a rake–it does not have to be a huge undertaking. Simply offering to keep an eye on the elderly neighbors once or twice a week, or having the single working mom’s kids over for ice cream. It’s really not that difficult to come up with ideas that would make a difference to your chosen recipients.

We can brighten others’ lives by way of simple gestures, much like our parents leaving the light on for us those many years ago. Make a family project out of it – involve your kids, and do it anonymously, if possible. The feeling you get from helping others is nothing compared to the peace given to others by letting them know that you’ll “leave the light on” for them.