1. THE FOUR CANDLES

2. Four candles slowly burned.

3. The ambiance was so soft, one could almost hear them talking…

4. “ The world is full of anger and fighting. Nobody can keep me lit.” The first candle said: “ I am Peace!” Then the flame of Peace went out completely.

5. “ I am no longer indispensable. It doesn’t make sense that I stay lit another moment.” The second candle said: “ I am Faith!” Just then a breeze softly blew Faith’s flame.

6. “ People don’t understand my importance so they simply put me aside. They even forget to love those who are nearest to them.” Sadly the third candle began to speak: “ I am Love!” And waiting no longer Love’s flame went out.

7. Suddenly… a child entered the room and saw the three unlit candles. “Why aren’t you burning? You’re supposed to stay lit till the end.” Saying this, the child began to cry.

8. “ While I am still burning we can re-light the other candles.” Then the fourth candle answered: “ Don’t be afraid, I am Hope!”

9. With shining eyes the child took the candle of hope and lit the other candles.

10. … but the flame of Hope should never go out of your life! The Greatest Of These Is Love… With hope each of us can live with Peace, Faith and Love.

11. PRAYER: PLEASE SHARE THIS MESSAGE WITH OTHERS! May today there be peace within. May you trust God that you are exactly where you are meant to be. May you not forget the infinite possibilities that are born of faith. May you use those gifts that you have received, and pass on the love that has been given to you. May you be confident knowing you are a child of God. Let this presence settle into your bones, and allow your soul the freedom to sing, dance, praise and love. It is there for each and every one of us. Saint Theresa