Carrying the Light Forward

Written by Sheena Adams-Avery, CDT, CDP, FAAF, QPRT  

Community Engagement, Cultural Awareness & Belonging Manager, HAPI 

A peaceful gathering space illuminated by candles and adorned with art, symbolizing hope and resilience.

As the days grow shorter and seasons shift, many in our community feel the weight of this time of year. Seasonal depression affects countless individuals, often in ways that are not visible. However, even in these heavy moments, we find opportunities to remind each other that hope persists, even during the darkest times.

The Service of Hope: A Gathering of Resilience

This October, HAPI held our Service of Hope: Words of Resilience, Overcoming Adversity. This event was not just a program; it served as a vivid reminder that healing is possible when we unite through creativity and compassion. Through music, poetry, and visual art, we created a safe space for reflection and renewal.

The Service of Hope honored those we have lost and celebrated those who face each day with courage. Together, we wove silence, song, and stories into a shared experience, affirming that:

You are not alone. Your voice matters. Your story matters. Healing is possible.

The Power of the Arts

Events like these are vital, especially during difficult seasons. The arts remind us that light can penetrate even the longest nights. When one person shares their creativity, it empowers another to find strength and continue forward. This is the impact of HAPI’s work, not just on one day but throughout the year. We strive to create spaces where resilience is celebrated and hope is nurtured.

During the Service of Hope, we witnessed the strength found in vulnerability. For example, one participant shared a poem that captured their battle with depression. It moved many in the audience, sparking tears and reflection. Each poem recited and each note played contributed to a collective healing experience. The arts transcend language, fostering deeper connections that promote understanding and empathy. According to a 2020 study by the American Journal of Public Health, engaging with the arts can increase well-being by 55%.

Community and Compassion

As we move into the upcoming months, we must carry forward the truth showcased at the Service of Hope: within community, creativity, and compassion, there is always light. The connections made during this gathering remind us that we are not alone in our struggles.

Building a supportive community is essential, especially during challenging times. Reach out to friends, family, or local organizations for support. For example, a simple phone call to a friend can provide comfort. Shared activities, meaningful conversations, and just being present for one another can significantly reduce feelings of isolation. Research shows that individuals with strong social ties are 50% more likely to live longer and healthier lives.

Finding Light in the Darkness

When facing seasonal depression, nurturing our mental health is vital. Engaging in creative outlets, such as painting, writing, or playing an instrument, provides an excellent way to express feelings and relieve stress. These activities can be therapeutic, breaking the cycle of negative thoughts.

A young woman with her hair in a bun stands peacefully in a sunlit meadow, wearing a floral dress and basking in the tranquility of the sun light and surrounding nature.

Practicing mindfulness and self-care is also important during the darker months. Simple practices, such as taking a nature walk, journaling, or meditating, can foster peace and clarity. It is vital to prioritize our mental well-being, particularly when days feel shorter and nights longer. According to the National Institute of Mental Health, around 5% of adults experience seasonal depression, so finding effective coping strategies becomes essential.

Moving Forward Together

Reflecting on the Service of Hope, let’s remember the importance of carrying the light forward. Each one of us can contribute to a culture of compassion and understanding. By sharing stories and supporting one another, we can create a ripple effect of hope that extends beyond our immediate community.

Let’s continue to honor those we have lost while celebrating the resilience of those who remain. Together, we can weave a tapestry of support through our lives, showing that healing is not just possible but probable, and that we are never truly alone.

As we navigate the upcoming months, let’s hold onto the message of hope from our Service of Hope. By nurturing creativity, compassion, and community, we can light even the darkest days. Remember, you are not alone, and your story matters. Together, we can carry the light forward.

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Resources Cited

• American Journal of Public Health (2020). The Arts and Health: Evidence of Impact on Well-Being. Retrieved from https://ajph.aphapublications.org

• Holt-Lunstad, J., Smith, T. B., & Layton, J. B. (2010). Social Relationships and Mortality Risk: A Meta-analytic Review. PLOS Medicine. Retrieved from https://journals.plos.org/plosmedicine/article?id=10.1371/journal.pmed.1000316

• National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH). Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD). Retrieved from https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/publications/seasonal-affective-disorder

Further Resources

If you or someone you know is struggling, help is available. These organizations provide immediate support, tools, and community connection:

• 📞 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline – Dial or text 988 for free, confidential support, available 24/7. https://988lifeline.org

• 💜 NAMI (National Alliance on Mental Illness) – Support groups, education, and resources for individuals and families. https://nami.org

• 🌿 Mental Health America – Screening tools, articles, and self-care resources. https://mhanational.org

• 🌐 Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) Helpline – 1-800-662-HELP (4357) for confidential treatment referrals. https://www.samhsa.gov