Darkness, My Friend

I resist the idea that darkness is bad,
that good guys wear the white hats,
that evil lurks in the darkness of night.
I simply don't buy a word of that.

How would I know the meaning of light
were it not for darkness that follows day?
Light is defined by retreating night
when the moon and the stars decide to make way
for shafts of light on a rugged hill,
for the first reflections on a quiet lake;
darkness befriends the weary and worn
with peaceful rest from the choices we make.

Darkness is a gift to be gladly received.
It bears no malice or evil intent.
The one who made the heavens and earth
is the one from whom the darkness is sent.

So, I give thanks this beautiful night
for the darkness that makes the light so bright.
And I pray for quiet and restful sleep,
that God's great love will protect and keep
all who await the dawning day.
And to this all the people of God gladly say:
Amen