Thanksgiving ushers in December. I move quickly from one family holiday to another, as do others. Am I ready for the wonder of Christmas? Yes and No! My mind is full of ideas but there is not enough time to complete everything I would like to do. The best plan is to slow down, breathe, and wish upon the Christmas star. In the midst of wishing, I feel the need to consider a thought from Spirituality Practice by Frederic and Mary Ann Brussat.
"Wonder begins in the senses, comes alive in the imagination, and flourishes in adoration of the Divine."
How do I awaken my senses, stop ruminating over unreconciled issues, and focus on what is before me? Pause again and turn to the prompt that this month's Spiritual Journey Thursday's host, Bob Hamera, offers: Accept and Change. Part of the dynamic sequence of creating mantras involves a dash of wonder, imagination, positivity, and belief in Divine intervention. Bob reminded me of a simple prayer from my youth on accepting and changing..
“God grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change, courage to change the things I can, and the wisdom to know the difference…"
I admit that I have been awed by nature this year. In appreciation of God's lovely creations, some ordinary in stature, others grand, I will continue my practice of finding quiet time to write and share the wonder.
I feel a peace as I read your post. It's beautiful. I have overfilled my schedule and am making lists to keep up. It's par for my course...but it was very sweet to stop here and remember to enjoy the quiet. I think I'll play some quiet Christmas music today...it's time for joy!
ReplyDeleteI love the poem shaped into a Christmas tree. I'm trying not to take on unnecessary stress for the holidays, but it's hard when there seems to be so much to do and so little time.
ReplyDeleteCarol, it is so easy to get caught up in the hustle and bustle of the season. How can we not be when we are constantly bombarded by holiday reminders on TV and in stores? I think it can be even more stressful when we are trying to make the holiday special for the little ones. It is important that we take the time to nurture ourselves during this busy time. We need to trust that everything will be done and fine. Here's wishing you some quiet time during this hectic season.
ReplyDeleteCarol: Thanks for your gorgeous "awestruck" poem...love it! I'm a bit slow this month, fighting a cold, etc. So maybe I'll post later, but even if I don't, I wish you a wonderful, warm, and holy Christmas.
ReplyDeleteI think we all struggle to slow down and stay present during these busy holiday times! Thanks for the encouragement!
ReplyDeleteYes, this is the reminder I needed. I'm feeling behind from being sick. But I know I need to take everything just one day at a time.
ReplyDeleteDo less best. :) Your Christmas tree poem is lovely, Carol.
ReplyDeleteI just saw your comment, Carol, didn't know you'd posted, & I'm behind with commenting, too. Thanks for coming by! There has been so much to do lately, & I'm not counting Christmas! I love your poem & "I sink into the quiet" especially. Keep finding those moments!
ReplyDeleteLinda, you are right, "There is so much to do lately." I try my best but get backlogged too many times. We all need breathers and time to "sink into the quiet." May your days be merry and bright. Thanks for sharing your thoughts with me.
DeleteShape poetry looks easy...but I know it's not! I agree that focusing on the Divine is a boon during this hectic season. I am completing a Write the Word Advent journal entry each morning, and it is centering me a bit before heading off to these hectic end-of-semester workdays.
ReplyDeleteA Christmas tree built out of poetic verses -- beautiful way to celebrate this season, Carol.
ReplyDeleteIt is so challenging to slow down and breathe, especially at this time of year! Thank you for the reminder and for sharing your noticings and wonderment!
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