It was nighttime. Darkness had covered everything. Only one room was lit, where four candles were burning.
Seeing the quiet around them, the four candles began to talk among themselves.
The first candle said,
“I am Peace. When I look at this world, I feel so sad. Everywhere there is chaos, greed, and violence. In such a place, it is very difficult for me to survive. I can no longer stay here.”
Saying this, the first candle went out.
The second candle then spoke its heart,
“I am Faith. I feel that lies, deceit, dishonesty, and betrayal are destroying my existence. This place is no longer worthy of me. I too am leaving.”
Saying this, the second candle went out as well.
The third candle was also sad. It said,
“I am Love. I can keep burning for everyone at all times. But now, no one has time for me. Selfishness and hatred are taking my place. Even towards their own loved ones, people no longer have love in their hearts. I cannot bear this anymore. It’s better for me to leave.”
Saying this, the third candle also went out.
Just as the third candle went out, a child entered the room. Seeing the candles extinguished, he felt very sad. Tears rolled down his cheeks. In a sorrowful voice, he said,
“How could you leave me in darkness halfway through my life? You were supposed to burn until the end, but you have abandoned me. What will I do now?”
Hearing the child’s words, the fourth candle said,
“Don’t worry, child. I am Hope, and I am still with you. As long as I am burning, you can relight the other candles from my flame.”
Hearing the words of the fourth candle, the child’s heart filled with courage. With the help of Hope, he relit Peace, Faith, and Love once again.
Moral:
Life is never the same. Sometimes there is light, and sometimes darkness. When darkness comes into your life, your mind feels restless, your faith begins to waver, and the world feels distant—light the lamp of Hope.
As long as the lamp of Hope burns, there can never be darkness in life. With Hope, anything can be achieved. Therefore, never let go of Hope.
Always remain happy — what you have is enough.
A joyful heart possesses everything.