A LIGHTED CANDLE

A lighted candle says this to us:

"You have lighted me and now you gaze into my flame. You enjoy the warmth and brightness that I spread. I'm happy to be useful and to burn for your pleasure. Otherwise, i would just be lying idle in some box on a shelf. I only have a meaning - a fulfillment while I am burning, although I know very well that the longer I burn the shorter I become and the nearer I get to the end of my life. And when it is all over, I know that you will say.... 'The candle is burned out.'

I know I have a choice of staying in a box and remaining unseen, untouched, and useless. Or I can burn myself out by giving light and warmth --- and hasten my death by doing so. But I find that giving is more beautiful and meaningful."

---------------------------------------

Humans are like that candle. Either we keep boxed up and remain cold and empty ---- or we mix with people and share our warmth and love. This then gives our lives meaning.

A BELL IS NO BELL TILL YOU RING IT ...
A SONG IS NO SONG TILL YOU SING IT ...
THE LOVE IN YOUR HEART WAS NOT PUT THERE TO STAY,
LOVE IS NOT LOVE TILL YOU GIVE IT AWAY.
(Anon.)