Where’s the Light?

There’s a story of a family whose electricity went out one night. The various children tried to maneuver in the dark, searching for any type of light source—candles, flashlights, matches, etc.—to dispel the darkness. 

One of the younger kids perked up and said, “I know what we can do! Let’s open the refrigerator! Then we’ll have light!” 

The family members had a good laugh at the young child’s expense, as even a refrigerator is not much at providing light in such a situation. 

It’s a funny little story, and it reminds me of the importance of light in dark spaces. 

We live in a dark world, and, I don’t know what you think, but, in my opinion, it is getting darker and darker every day. However, even in the midst of all the darkness, the light can still shine through.  

That’s where we, those who are called to write, come into play. When I get discouraged and feel like giving up on this writing thing, I am reminded it is my duty to shine light in the dark places. 

My wife and I live next door to her mother, and we often visit at night and must walk back to our house in the dark. There’s a small stretch of the walkway that has no light, and I always use my phone’s flashlight to illuminate the way. It’s amazing what impact a small amount of light has on the darkness. In turn, it is amazing what impact a small amount of inspiration has on an ever-darkening world. 

Will an article here, a blog post there, and an occasional devotion really shine enough light to matter? Absolutely. Like my phone’s flashlight on that pathway, sometimes a small dose of encouragement goes a long way. How many times has such a piece of writing come your way when you needed it most? It’s countless times for me. 

I challenge you today: instead of looking for light by opening the refrigerator, sit down in the chair and produce some light—some inspiration, some encouragement—to illuminate your corner of the world. 

Carlton Hughes, represented by Cyle Young of Hartline Literary, wears many hats. By day, he is a professor of communication. On Wednesday evenings and Sunday mornings, he serves as a children’s pastor. In his “spare time,” he is a freelance writer. Carlton is an empty-nesting dad and devoted husband who likes long walks on the beach, old sitcoms, and chocolate—all the chocolate. His work has been featured in Chicken Soup for the Soul: The Dating Game, The Wonders of Nature, Let the Earth Rejoice, Just Breathe, So God Made a Dog, and Everyday Grace for Men. His latest book is Adventures in Fatherhood, co-authored with Holland Webb.