The light of wishes

Gods? Sure, having something to worship isn't entirely bad. She had heard people talk about how when you're desperate or standing on the edge, you tend to find something to lean on. She saw it a few times in her family, when her cousins were severely ill and relatives spent the entire night praying at a famous pagoda. Sometimes, hope is the only thing keeping you from going insane. A bit superstitious, she thought. Even as she held the wishing lantern and prayed, she felt that gods probably wouldn't bless her for things she needed to put effort into achieving herself. 'I hope everyone in the family and the sect, especially Grandma and Patriarch Lin, stays healthy and happy, with no danger they cannot overcome. As for myself, I just hope to stay healthy and remain clear-minded, so I can support others without being a burden.' The prayers felt similar, yet not the same. Wishing for others felt right, but when it came to her own wishes, it felt like a half-hearted request. She released the lantern, watching it slowly float into the dark sky with a faint smile. Silly... that thing might never reach the gods above. If they really listened, why would there still be suffering in the world? Despite that insolent thought, she made no move to leave, just watching until the small flame vanished into the night.