A lone figure stands against the store front, leaning on his cane in the cold while waiting for the Christmas parade. I smile and wave at him, and he waves back.

"You're here by yourself?" I ask, wondering why he would come alone.

He smiles and nods.

"I gotta get some joy," he says.

Is this where you are getting your joy, Dan? I wondered. A short space of time to watch brightly lit trailers with waving, smiling people. Is this your only joy?

He looks lonely.

Do you want to know joy? my heart cries. Look to Jesus, Dan. Look to Jesus.