Is it just me or does anybody else out there sense some growing positive trends in our society–what we might even call a spiritual renewal? We still witness the political wrangling in Washington. There is still crime in the streets. And, even in a recession, materialism still gets in the way of what’s truly important. At the same time…

I just saw news coverage of elderly WWII veterans praising the valor of the younger generation of soldiers. There were also younger soliders honoring those who preceded them in battle. I also heard about a Website where teens and 20-somethings are posting photos of their parents when they were younger and also “cool.” They are acknowledging the colorfulness and the good character of their parents. I see interfaith movements where people of diverse religious backgrounds overcome their differences and unite in faith. And, have you noticed the myriad of humanitarian organizations operating throughout the world bringing transformation to communities where there is hunger and oppression?  

I conclude two things: (1) When times get a little tougher, we may reach out to each other more than when the economy is booming and zooming. (2) We also see in the world whatever we choose to look for. If we look in the darkness, we see only shadows. If we turn the lights on, we see beauty and kindness.

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