Light the World: Be the answer to someone's prayer

Today's Light the World prompt is: "Ask God how you can be the answer to someone else's prayer today."

Like the girl in the cartoon, too often we rely our phones to gives answers — or we look to some other external source. Seek inspiration and guidance from within.

Light the World: Help a single parent

Yes, Star Wars seems to be everywhere at the moment. Rather than risk spoilers for the Rise of Skywalker, the Mandalorian seemed like the perfect fit for today's #LightTheWorld suggestion. After all, Mando is charged with caring for Baby Yoda. And what else is he going to do, leave him alone on his ship?

Help out a single parent today, and Light the World!

Light the World: Support a small business

OK, so Santa's Workshop at the North Pole technically isn't a small business — although it is family-owned.

Stop by a small business today, BUY something, and be nice to the people who work there. They'll love it!

Light the World: Thanking a mentor

OK, so this one is a little different. It's more of a true story instead of a gag. It's a nod to one of my mentors.

My Journalism professor at BYU, Ed Haroldsen, pushed me from doodling in my notebook to being a genuine cartoonist. He not only noticed and encouraged me in my cartooning, he gave me ideas to use from time to time. It wasn't unusual for him to greet me before class and give me a critique of the day's cartoon in the Daily Universe.

He had an amazing career as a journalist and as a teacher. I am honored that he took the time to encourage me in my cartooning. He taught me some great writing and editing skills as well!

That said, there are three other people I have to acknowledge for their gentle prods and encouragement. In high school, Valerie set up an appointment for me to meet with the cartoon editor at the New Era. That was huge for me, and started me on the path of cartooning as a professional. It never would have happened without her.

Similarly, in college Susan encouraged me to meet with the editors of the school paper. BYU had cranked out a bunch of editorial cartoonists, but (as far as I know) up to that point they hadn't run a humor strip. That nudging led to my relationship with Bro. Haroldsen, and it led to me achieving one of my bucket list items before I even knew I had a bucket list. The paper ran two daily comic strips: mine... and Peanuts!

My dear wife Christy is a constant encouragement and inspiration. She laughs at my gags even when they're poor and gives me ideas to improve them. She helps keep me motivated, and is the best marketing rep that I have!

I've truly been blessed with some great people in my life. Thank you!

Light the World: Pray for someone

The full challenge is to pray for someone for whom you've had negative feelings lately.

Interestingly, it doesn't say to forgive them. To me, praying for them feels like a first step on the path to forgiveness. Praying for them lightens your heart.

It's worth a try.

Editor's Note: This cartoon was inspired by a quote I read recently: "To err is human, to forgive canine."

Light the World: Smile!

Today's #LightTheWorld challenge is to take a vow of positivity today — to greet everyone with a smile.

Light the World: Share Your Family History

Did someone mention the spirit of Elijah?