The Four Candles - A Story About Hope

I heard the story of The Four Candles at Mass only a couple of weeks ago, and I had to send it to you as my Christmas card.   I think the story originated in India.

      The Story of The Four Candles

— Author unknown

Once, there were four candles burning in a room at night, and they started talking to each other.

The first candle said, ‘I am Peace, but at the moment, there is constant upheaval and unrest. It seems no one wants me anymore.’ Then, the flame of peace went out.

The second candle said, ‘I am Faith, but everywhere I look, I see lies, deceit, and selfishness. I don’t think I’m needed anymore.’ Just then, a breeze softly blew out Faith’s flame.

Sadly, the third candle began to speak: ‘I am Love. People don’t understand my importance, so they simply put me aside. They even forget to love those nearest them. I haven’t the strength to stay lit.’ And waiting no longer, Love’s flame went out.

 Suddenly, a child entered the room and saw the three unlit candles. ‘Why aren’t you burning? You are supposed to stay lit to the end!’  Saying this, the child began to cry. Then the fourth candle answered: ‘Don’t be afraid. I am Hope. While I am still burning, we can light the other candles’

With eyes shining, the child took the candle of Hope and lit the other candles.