Silent Night by Demian Yumei and Stacey Young
The story of a baby born in humble surroundings in the dead of winter touches my heart. No matter where I am in my spiritual journey, this image always moves me.
It’s not where the baby is born that’s so remarkable. Much to our shame, in this world, babies are born in such surroundings and worse every day. What is miraculous is the acknowledgement of this child’s worth by people of little power and those with much, all recognizing this child’s inherent value.
I know this story means different things to different people. I know it’s a cornerstone to Christianity.
As a trauma survivor, this story has its own message to me.
I believe every person carries within them their own Bethlehem, their own Silent Night. Within every person is a guiding star, an open heart that hears inspiration, the inner wisdom and faith to follow it.
I know the path before those who are overcoming challenges, in whatever form they present themselves, can be long and arduous.
I am proud of you – no matter how sure your steps or how hesitant, I am proud of you as you walk your healing journey.
Many people run from the work before them. Others ridicule those who engage in it.
You could quit. There are times — days, weeks, months, years — when your heart is heavy with depression, almost paralyzed, when the pain is excruciating and you live your life as if every moment were a shallow labored breath of a dying person.
You could give in. But you don’t… even when you do, you don’t.
You could say, “the hell with it” and just pass your legacy of pain to the next generation as you had inherited it, and numb yourself out so that you wouldn’t care who judged you.
But you won’t — not without a fight. But sometimes, fighting closes you off.
Tonight, unclench your fists. Open your heart. Calm the screaming in your head and let it fill with blessed silence.
There is a song that is telling your story, the one that weaves itself through so many melodies and harmonies, in spoken narratives and sung poetry, on dancers’ feet and sweeping strokes of color on open and willing canvases.
It’s the story of hope, of faith and redemption.
Behold the rising of a star, a light of hope, in your long dark night. Let yourself hear its message. Despite all the “why this won’t work” arguments to dissuade you, follow where it leads. Make the journey to your own tender heart.
The sacred is not lost. It’s just in a seemingly unlikely place. But not really. Because that place is within you.
Even as so many close their doors to their own humanity and lock them with disbelief, there is a star shining brightly, trying to catch your eye — trying to catch us all.
Look up… or better yet, look inside.
In heavenly peace, I believe in you.
Demian