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From the writings of the Rev. Billy Graham

Q: I am committed to living a happier life in the New Year in spite of my disabilities. I certainly don't want a repeat of the year that is drawing to an end. I didn't do so well in overcoming days of depression. How can I replace the sorrow of dark shadows with sunshine and happiness? -- D.S.

A: A happy life is not one filled only with sunshine, but one which uses both light and shadow to produce beauty. All the masterpieces of art contain both light and shadow. The greatest musicians as a rule are those who know how to bring song out of sadness. Fanny Crosby, her spirit aglow with faith in Christ many years ago, saw more with her sightless eyes than most do with normal vision. She has given us some of the great songs of the church that cheer our hearts and lives.

Joni Eareckson Tada, a bright-eyed and talented woman, has lifted spirits of children and adults through sharing her joy in the midst of suffering.

The self-sacrifice of God's people through the centuries has contributed immeasurably to our culture, to our ethics. And to our faith. Down deep we know that there are still things worth dying for, that an existence void of faith is still a fate worse than death.

In the words of Thornton Wilder, an American playwright and novelist, who once wrote: "The very angels of God in heaven cannot persuade the wretched and blundering children of earth as can one human being broken on the wheels of living." These are words worth pondering. But more important is to look into the Word of God -- the Bible. This book will satisfy your greatest longing.

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(This column is based on the words and writings of the late Rev. Billy Graham.)

(c)2019 BILLY GRAHAM DISTRIBUTED BY TRIBUNE MEDIA SERVICES, INC.