Sunbeams.




	I was scraping the frost and ice off my car windows this morning in the bitter cold of an overcast winter's day. The sky was grey and the wind painful as it bit into my skin. A shadow had covered the world it seemed and was trying to get into my soul as well. It was then, however, that it happened. The clouds broke for a moment and a glorious sunbeam flew down to Earth as if on Angels' wings. It brightened the snow covered ground with its precious gold and while it didn't warm the air a bit, it did warm my soul with its beauty and light.
	It is amazing how a single sunbeam can change the landscape of the world and of our lives. Saint Francis of Assisi said, " A single sunbeam is enough to drive away many shadows." What a joyous power it is to be able to drive out the shadows of the world. Let us not be afraid then to cast a few sunbeams of love and joy in our own lives.

	Let us smile at people in stores and restaurants and give them our happiness. Let us compliment a stranger and stop to help someone in need. Let us tell our children, family, and friends when they do something good and appreciate them for who they are. Let us let everyone we love know just how much we care for them and how important they are to us. Let us make a few snow angels and build a few snowmen with the kids. Let us walk on the beach and write a few words of love and encouragement in the sand. Let us plant some flowers along the sidewalk and a new tree in our yards. Let us do everything we can to shine countless sunbeams and drive out the shadows in this world.
	God gave each of us a brilliant light, love, and joy that burns within our souls. It is up to us though to choose it, nourish it, and then share it with the world. May your light always glow as bright as a sunbeam.
	Joseph J. Mazzella