In the Northern Hemisphere, each day has less sunlight. Of course, we know it will grow light again after the solstice, but what if we didn’t KNOW that. Would we have hope that it would? Would we pray to whatever superior being was handy?

That’s a bit what it is like now. All we can do is hope that the world will reach a point of acceptable darkness soon and begin to bring in the light of peace and understanding once again.

There are other things we can do. Prayers and thoughts seem to be common answers. Observing the signs of hope around you, like these dwarf bluckwheat growing out of the blackest volcanic earth, can give you the strength to extend a kindness to a stranger—or an acquaintance you don’t like very well.

Listening is vital. Can you resist the urge to be waiting for your moment to respond, maybe even escalate the discussion to something more? Instead concentrate on active listening to what the person is and isn’t saying; be alert to body language and emotional tone. Bring a little light into the other person’s life.

I decided a while ago that I wanted my books to end on an up note. Not only do I try to provide a good story, but also inspiration. If the characters can face all odds, dig a little deeper, and grow into the happiness they deserve, then that should be accessible to all people.

During this season of darkness, where multiple religions and non-religions celebrate some ceremony that reminds us the light is coming back, I wish hope to be your companion during the journey.

If you need a little inspiration, click here to get a free copy of Promise Cove Holidays – a guaranteed happy ending.