advent

Stillness. I can’t think of a better way to truly feel the presence of the season. The world reaffirmed that for me this week, when on three different occasions the question came up as to just what we need to do to let the peace of this time of the year overwhelm us with love and calmness instead of allowing hurry and adrenaline to fill our spirits.

I was reminded, that last year, Ryan Holiday’s book “Stillness is the Key” was one of my top 3. I believe this excerpt from the book’s introduction will tell you why:

“Stillness is what aims the archer’s arrow. It inspires new ideas. It sharpens perspective and illuminates connections. It slows the ball down so that we might hit it. It generates a vision, helps us resist the passions of the mob, make space for gratitude and wonder. Stillness allows us to persevere. To succeed. It is the key that unlocks the insights of genius, and allows us regular folks to understand them.”

I might add…

Stillness quiets our pinball minds. Stillness brings us clarity and helps our mind sort out what is important at the depth of our souls. Stillness, on this Christmas week, is what allows us to center ourselves toward the sweet story that positions us toward our hopes and purpose in this world. Stillness brings us closer to hearing and feeling God’s presence wherever we find ourselves. Stillness gives us the best opportunity to breathe in deeply peace and expands our hearts.

Stillness, I hope, is a place you find yourself this week. In fact, I pray that you will prioritize quiet time around twinkling lights and that you will be washed over with all that brings you joy.

Happy Advent week 4 –– The candle of love. Love is everything.

Advent! Week three. The season is pushing through at a phenomenal pace. It seems I barely cracked open my Advent devotional to get prepared (my heart and soul) for the “real reason” for this season and now we are entering week three. I’m probably still on the 20-yard line, and I oh so badly want to go all in with all that Advent has to offer us: Peace that surpasses understanding, love that pours through our every being, and a deep knowing that this period ushers us to experience the greatest gift. “Advent is the season of expectancy, preparation, and longing.” (Tsh Oxenreider)

As I prepared for this, a simple Google search presented this simple and perfect explanation of week three: “For the Joy that is ahead.” And oh boy, I feel that…I sense the build up. I am beginning to feel the energy shift into delight and lighter spirits all around. Hanukkah started this week and my friends who celebrate have been sharing their stories. My friend Nan, posted a message with the classic menorah and Christmas tree merged together with a simple message that said “two celebrations, one hope for peace.” I loved that!

The days of the work year are dwindling and there is a feeling of expectation from young to old… School in all of its forms this year will take a pause at the end of this week for most, and with any luck, our preparations for celebrating those around us will come to a point where we can take a deep and restorative breath.

I hope that you will pause today and focus on all of the crazy good that is ahead. The promises of God surround us in both word and action. In truth, they bring us absolutely everything that we need, (down to the last detail), to fully achieve our purpose and find incredible and true joy in service to others.