“Happiness is a sunbeam which may pass through a thousand bosoms without losing a particle of its original ray; nay, when it strikes on a kindred heart, like the converged light on a mirror, it reflects itself with redoubled brightness. It is not perfected till it is shared.”  Jane Porter

Yesterday I enjoyed a high school performance of Beauty and the Beast.  This wonderful story of how love can overcome all obstacles was beautifully presented, with fabulous costumes, talented young people, fine direction, great music and a joy for my granddaughter and I to behold.  Many of the performers were past students of mine and it was fun watching them take this next step in their growth.  It was also a bittersweet experience.

The lovely message of this tale as old as time, is that kindness and love should rule our lives and with them we can overcome even our darkest days. When you look in the mirror, what do you see?  Is it the reflection of one who has found peace in life, or one who is still struggling?  Have you become shrouded with a mask of ugliness which has turned a once kind creature into a beast?  Does your face radiate the love which God has so freely given you or are you hiding that light deep inside of you somewhere?

We all have both kinds of personalities lurking within us.  There’s the side that radiates peace and joy and the other that exudes anger and hate.  Which would you prefer your life to be?

Over two thousand years ago, a man was sent by God, the Father, to change the course of the world forever.  Through His death and resurrection, our fate has been sealed.  We have the promise of eternal life – a life that no longer holds a darkened heart, full of sin. This was the perfect form of redemption, directly from God – performed by Him – given to an undeserving people, because of His unconditional love for us.

When you feel the beast coming out in you, turn to your Savior.  He’s waiting for you.  He will get you through the ugly times of your existence.  He alone is the answer and that’s no fairy tale.