The Four Candles burned slowly in the empty room. Their ambiance was so soft you could hear them speak. Their words were sad…

The first candle said, “I Am Peace, but these days, nobody wants to keep me lit.” Then Peace’s flame slowly diminished and went out completely.

The second candle said, “I Am Faith, but these days, I am no longer indispensable.” Then Faith’s flame slowly diminished and went out completely.

Sadly the third candle spoke, “I Am Love and I haven’t the strength to stay lit any longer. People put me aside and don’t understand my importance. They even forget to love those who are nearest to them.” And waiting no longer, Love went out completely.

Suddenly…

A child entered the room and saw the three candles no longer burning. The child began to cry, “Why are you not burning? You are supposed to stay lit until the end. What shall I do with no peace, no faith and no love”

Then the Fourth Candle spoke gently to the child, “Don’t be afraid, for I Am Hope, and while I still burn, we can re-light the other candles. Let’s relight them now. Together.”

With shining eyes, the child took the Candle of Hope and lit the other three candles. And you might see them go out from time to time. But as long as Hope shines on, the other three will always be with us.