Easy ways to do 2D light sources?

Is there a way that I can create a light source on a 2D surface? My 2D surface is actually represented in 3D space, so I guess that in theory a 3D light source would work, but either way, I don't know how to make one.

something here *might* help.

Check out some of the examples in this thread:
http://www.blitzbasic.com/Community/posts.php?topic=42339&hl=2d%20lighting