“It was the best of times, it was the worst of times, it was the age of wisdom, it was the age of foolishness, it was the epoch of incredulity, it was the season of Light, it was the season of Darkness, it was the spring of hope, it was the winter of despair, we had everything before us…” – Charles Dickens, A Tale of Two Cities

One would think Dickens wrote this about the tumultuous state of the world today.  It’s a tough time for everyone particularly those facing persecution, natural disasters and trauma.  In the Tale of Two Cities, Dr. Manette’s broken spirit from his unjust eighteen year imprisonment is healed by the love and devotion of his daughter.

In every case of disaster or distress we learn of heroes who shield others from bullets, rescue people from burning buildings, donate blood, time and money to those in need, comfort strangers and loved ones who are suffering. We bring relief by showing we care, standing up for morality, engaging in humanitarian efforts.

Volunteer, sign up for a cause, make peace with someone, be a mentor, give encouragement, get involved.  There are so many ways to bring light to dark times.