The shadow we cast…
From Wikipedia… “Groundhog Day is a popular North American tradition observed in the United States and Canada on February 2. It derives from the Pennsylvania Dutch superstition that if a groundhog emerging from its burrow on this day sees its shadow due to clear weather, it will retreat to its den and winter will persist for six more weeks; but if it does not see its shadow because of cloudiness, spring will arrive early. While the tradition remains popular in modern times, studies have found no consistent correlation between a groundhog seeing its shadow and the subsequent arrival time of spring-like weather. The weather lore was brought from German-speaking areas where the badger (German: Dachs) is the forecasting animal. This appears to be an enhanced version of the lore that clear weather on the Christian festival of Candlemas forebodes a prolonged winter. The Groundhog Day ceremony held at Punxsutawney in western Pennsylvania, centering on a semi-mythical groundhog named Punxsutawney Phil, has become the most frequently attended ceremony. Grundsow Lodges in Pennsylvania Dutch Country in the southeastern part of the state observe the occasion as well. Other cities in the United States and Canada also have adopted the event.”
Our words, our actions, our beliefs cast shadows on those we encounter on a daily basis; long, lasting shadows that linger, sometimes for a lifetime. I can remember the first time I got in trouble at school over a silly little art project. You can probably remember the first time a relationship didn’t work out like you had hoped. Or the time someone remembered you with a gift or a card; a kind word or a call.
What “shadow” will you cast over the next weeks and months with those you meet? Will it be a sign of hope and joy; love and peace, or will it be a reflection of despair and distrust? You can choose because the Son is always shining His light down upon you.
“Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of lights, who does not change like shifting shadows.” James 1:17, CSB