The Light of a Candle Illuminates Its Surroundings

We've all heard some variation of the wisdom that only a small light makes a dent in the darkness -- and this is, indeed, very true. Most of the time, we don't experience true darkness: there is always a street lamp, indoor lighting, the glow of a screen. But out in the wilderness, on a night with no moon, and perhaps clouds covering the stars, it can be so dark that the light from one small candle can be seen from very far away.

In the original oil painting, Light in the Forest, two women stand in just such a woods at twilight, while the glow of sunset still illuminates the forest. But all sunsets end, and soon the darkness will engulf the area, broken only by the two flickering flames of the women's candles. At this point, these candles -- though they seem little enough in a well lighted living room -- will make a veritable difference.

In some ways, Light in the Forest tells a story for all of us who seek to make a difference, but get discouraged because we are not a Tiffany lamp, or -- as is the case with so many celebrities and politicians -- a glaring spotlight. But in a dark forest, where there are no lamps and spotlights, the candle shines brightly and true, protected by our hands from the breeze.

Light in the Forest is sold.