Lighthouses radiate a purposeful intention to guide and protect. Yet, the helpfulness of a lighthouse is not solely derived from its place aloft, optical design or source of energy. There is one more thing…the most important of all. Compassion!
I believe lighthouses are meaningful and beloved because they embody our humanity through a perpetual desire to care about others. By demonstrating an empathy for others – people that we almost assuredly will never meet, and that which is irrespective of their ethnicity or creed, ensures lighthouses are duly exalted the world-over for their guardianship and idealism.
Lighthouses! Their aim has advanced human progress and their presence has proven akin to friendship. Oh the untold people these sentinels have saved through time – taking the storm-tossed soul by the hand and escorting them safely along perilous ways to ports of call or Home Sweet Home.
Even their initial rise centuries ago reflects the indomitable spirit of mankind. Craftsmen – skilled and courageous, raised up these stately edifices upon places fraught with obstacles and peril.
But of course, there was no other choice. Not if the collective’s desire to save lives was to be realized. For the most dangerous places are where the sea grows thin and broken ground emerges. Conquering the dangers that gripped these inhumane locales required endeavors both ingenious and strenuous. Determined and courageous too.
Yet there is more to a lighthouse’s essence of humanity. The stories!
From storms and shipwrecks to their establishment and endurance, the history that clings to these steadfast beacons is nothing short of compelling. Then there is that inextinguishable light! Always bright and going forth into the night.
Assuredly, there are a plethora of accounts paying tribute to selfless, dedicated keepers – and their families, who tended to the benevolent powers of a lighthouse. These unsung heroes used light, sound and vigilance to protect others. Stories of sacrifice and valor to isolation and hardship, abound. Weave them together and one is privileged to read of a humanitarian legacy second to none.
Today, lighthouses are enduring and relevant symbols of our humanity. Their purpose can be seen, their idealism can be felt and the wisdom they convey through the notion of people helping people, is clearly timeless and transformative.
Well said and well written as always Bob! Again I see the likeness to Christ.❤️