“Carry your candle, run to the darkness…”

The sound of every voice in the all school choir filled the darkened auditorium… and 164 candles glowed brightly in the hands of those who were singing with all their hearts.

Standing in the director’s position, my heart swelled with the music as all of our hard work was finally culminated in one final, amazing performance.

One candle could not produce much light, but all together they made a beautiful glow as everyone extended their arms toward the ceiling… “Let’s raise our candles, light up the sky!”

The scene nearly took my breath away. Because life is so much like those individual candles, all together casting a brilliant glow over the shadows.

The program evening was a delightful blend of sweet little moments, all together creating a very special evening.

Students smiling shyly and nervously as they arrive at school in their best clothes for the evening Christmas program.

Childish giggles as they play Twister in uncomfortable shoes.

Singing “Jingle Bells” at the top of our voices while stomping to the beat – an excellent way to release the nervous jitters we were all dealing with.

Sitting on the front bench bursting with pride in my students as sheep raced up the church aisle, shepherds discovered Jesus, and the innkeeper accepted the Truth and Light.

The incredible feeling of success as 23 childish voices sweetly sang “Seek this Jesus.”

Giving a reassuring smile to a very nervous looking child in the choir… and seeing his expression relax as he refocused on his teacher who was directing the song.

A victory hug with my co teacher after our students performed their skit and song… and the dramatic “awww, please!” of our fourth grade innkeeper.

Conversations with the parents of “my” children… the beaming smiles as I exited the church leading kindergarten after mass choir…

So many little moments. So many little lights. Euphoria. Glowing.