A Light in Darkness

I recently read in a magazine that on or around December 21st, there is a tradition called, Longest Night or Blue Christmas, where Christian churches around the country officer services to people in grief.  It coincides with the idea that this is the same time as winter solstice, marking the time when darkness begins to turn to light.  The observance of this time connects suffering with the message of Christmas, which is hope.  I love that word.  That is my word for the season – HOPE!  Hope is indeed a light in darkness.