Ruth's Gift

I lit a candle today in memory of Ruth, a longtime visitor to the Listening Post, who passed away a couple days ago. Ruth was aging and of poor health, yet had an inner strength that enabled her to live alone in one of the toughest areas of town. I only ever saw her wearing jeans, a tshirt, and a Greek fisher's cap that covered most of her short, grey hair. In cooler weather she'd bundle up in a woolen coat that would be equally at home in the Yukon where she lived for several years. She was a quiet, gentle woman. Our conversations were unhurried and included periods of comfortable silence. Ruth would ask about our candle supply and kept us well stocked, though she lived in social housing and was of very modest means.

We always have several candles burning at the Listening Post -- one in the front window, welcoming passersby to pause for a moment and enjoy the peaceful space, one in the centre of the circular seating area, serving as a focal point for silent meditation and prayer and one on the bookshelf in the entryway, inviting peaceful, respectful conversation.

The candles burn with a soft, warm glow that remind me of Ruth, her gentle manner, her strong inner spirit, her generosity. Ruth's gift of candles is a gift of light to her community and to those who happen to walk by and pause for a few moments to reflect, perhaps to feel some comfort, some peace, some joy.

Thank you, Ruth, for the light you continue to bring to the world.