But I arise, because I know there are laughter and compassion, and creativity and wonder, and kindness and generosity beyond measure, and I know we are tools and means by which light pierces the darkness. I know, as well and truly and deeply as I know anything at all, that the thorny grace of it is the shape and nature of its holiness. If there was no darkness there would be nothing for us to light. We are the light. So it is that I arise from the sagging old bed, and shuffle creakily into the glorious chaos of the kitchen, of my tumultuous family, of the brusied and bloody world, and get to work, grinning. I don't know Who set all this pain and glory in motion, but I bow in thanks for the sweet puzzle of it all. Amen. 

- Brian Doyle