A tragic fire had claimed the lives of two of the residents of the trailer court where I once lived, as well as the life of a visiting grandmother. One of those lost was an eight year old girl who had played with my son. She was dear to me. My mind tormented me with images of what her last minutes might have been like. I couldn't comprehend what had happened; I was heavy with sorrow and full of fear.

Then one night, as I lay in darkness both within and without, crying out to God; a presence of comfort, of all encompassing joy came upon me. I had never felt so loved. The sorrow was still there, but I was made lighter of my burden of fear. That night, I received the gift of the comforter, the Holy Spirit Himself. Now I am never alone. Thank you, Abba!