John,

Last night we witnessed the longest night of the year with the winter solstice. Beginning today, daylight will steadily increase for the next six months.

At Sunset, Jewish people across the world will light the first candle on their menorahs beginning the celebration of Hanukkah. Christians and non-Christians alike have decorated their homes with stars and lights to celebrate the coming of Christmas. And beginning on December 26th and ending on January 1st many African Americans will light a candle each day to honor the seven principles of Kwanza.

Across a multitude of cultural practices and ways of being, we are in a season of reflection and hopeful anticipation where the element of light connects our lives. Whether introspectively and or with community, in this holiday season let us focus on the light of our own lives that emanates from within and manifests in how we show up for ourselves and others in the world. May we end this year and enter into the new with an invigorated commitment to so let our internal lights shine brighter with the coming days of blessed life.

Thank you for the love and light you have showered upon me. May you, your family and community be enveloped by the same.

Happy Holidays from my heart to yours!

Dr. Stephany Rose Spaulding
Your Candidate for the United States Senate