As the Advent season approaches, we remember the gift of hope and the power that gift confers. Much in our world today can fuel fear and hopelessness. The long night of material poverty and disease continues. The cycle of fear leading to war seems endless. The assault on people's human rights continues unabated. Battles long fought against bigotry and prejudice remain unconquered. Disappointments that left deep wounds are reopened by failed friendships, collapsed pretense and exposed deception.