Go Light Your World

“There is a candle in every soul.  Some brightly burning, some dark and cold…”

 

Those words from this song, began an evening of healing and community for myself, my family and my neighbors.  As many in Indianapolis and around the world know, on November 10, 2012 a deadly explosion rocked our lives and took the lives of two young people Jennifer and Dion Longworth.

Over 80 houses were affected and 30 of those were so severly damaged they had to be torn down. Families have been displaced, people are on edge and frightened, but on this evening, December 22 we took our candles and we lit our world.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Over 1000 bags and candles were assembled and distributed by members of the Richmond Hill neighborhood during the day.  Everyone pitched in, it was really great.  Folding bags till they piled up to the ceiling and filled the garage; pouring sand and placing a tea light in each bag.  The kids enjoyed it too.  Even my eight year old son, felt like he was part of something big, as he hopped in the back of the truck to start placing the bags along the streets.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

It was a lovely evening.  It started at the house of one family who setup a hot cocoa & cookies stand to bear the freezing temps.  There was a moment of silence as we lit two candles filled with dirt from the property of those two young lives lost.  People walked and talked, they laughed and cried.  It was beautiful.

 

For me, it was a touching example of hope, strength and a united spirit as we come together to rebuild and regain a sense of normalcy.  So, when tragedy strikes at you, remember…

“…carry your candle, run to the darkness
Seek out the helpless, confused and torn
Hold out your candle for all to see it
Take your candle, and go light your world!”

 

Blessings to you this Christmas!

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