Light the Way with Kindness, Love, and Compassion

When my children were young, in summertime I made outdoor candles. All year long, I saved old spaghetti sauce and salsa jars. After they were washed and dried, I cut a three-foot length of heavy florist’s wire. I tightly wrapped the wire around the mouths of the jars, leaving half the length as a loop for hanging. I then took the end of the loop and tucked it under the already wrapped wire. The end was drawn back up and twisted around itself to secure the loop in place. I settled inexpensive tea lights into the bottoms of the jars and hung the creations in trees or on fences, outdoor furniture, and arbors. At night, the lights became bright, welcoming spots of cheer in the darkness. They served to light the way home.

Changing lives comes one at a time—one smile, one hug, one loaf of bread, one jar of jam, one song, one sonnet. In our mortal lives, we are privileged to have the power to reach out and lift and bless the lives of others. 

In times of sorrow or loss, what have others done to express love and care for you? What helped most to heal your heart? In times of trial and struggle, what words touched and blessed you? In times of illness, what service was of most benefit? In times of loneliness or despair, what uplifted you? Think of ways the kindness of others has benefited you in the various times and seasons of your life. List ways you can show kindness, love, and compassion to others as they endure similar circumstances. Like the glow of a candle on a dark night, you can light the way with your love and warmth.