The Four Candles burned slowly.

Their ambiance was so soft you could hear them speak...The first candle said, "I Am Peace, but these days, nobody wants to keep me lit." Then Peace's flame slowly diminished and went out completely. The second candle said, "I Am Faith, but these days, I am no longer indispensable." Then Faith's flame slowly diminished and went out completely.  Sadly the third candle spoke, "I Am Love and I haven't the strength to stay lit any longer." "People put me aside and don't understand my importance.  They even forget to love those who are nearest to them."  And waiting no longer, Love went out completely.  Suddenly ... A child entered the room and saw the three candles no longer burning.  The child began to cry, "Why are you not burning? You are supposed to stay lit until the end."Then the Fourth Candle spoke gently to the little boy, "Don't be afraid, for I Am Hope, and while I still burn, we can re-light the other candles." With shining eyes, the child took the Candle of Hope and lit the other three candles. Never let the Flame of Hope go out. With Hope in your life, no matter how bad things may be, Peace, Faith and Love may shine brightly once again. 

(Adapted from unknown storywriter)