Christmas is a mood, a quality, a symbol. It is never merely a fact.

Often, to be free means the ability to deal with the realities of one's own situation so as not to be overcome by them.

keep fresh before me the moments of my high resolve.

I will light candles this Christmas, Candles of joy, despite all sadness, Candles of hope where despair keeps watch. Candles of courage where fear is ever present, Candles of peace for tempest-tossed days, Candles of grace to ease heavy burdens. Candles of love to inspire all my living, Candles that will burn all the year long.

There is something in every one of you that waits and listens for the sound of the genuine in yourself. It is the only true guide you will ever have. And if you cannot hear it, you will all of your life spend your days on the ends of strings that somebody else pulls.

Growth always involves the risk of failure.

Ask yourself what makes you come alive.