We come to this season from different traditions. All traditions celebrate the miracles of this time of year. I come to this time through the lens of Christianity. Advent is a time of waiting in quiet solitude for the returning light. Winter solstice honors the quiet of the winter months where the ground is cold and dark so the seeds can rest and germinate for the coming spring. It is difficult to follow our bodies yearnings to be still and listen during the busiest time of the year. How do you balance solitude and community? I’d like to reflect on the Christmas story, but with a different look at the gifts of the Magi. I’ve gathered 18 gifts from Sarah Ban Breathnach’s book Simple Abundance. These gifts/qualities for the journey include:
Unconditional love. Selflessness. Trust. Faith. Forgiveness.
Wholeness. Second Chances. Comfort. Joy. Peace.
Reassurance. Rejoicing. Generosity. Compassion.
Charity. Wonder. Acceptance. Courage.
Reflections:
1. Which ones are challenging for you? Which are fully integrated into your life?
2. How do they play out in your life?
3. Which one would you like to carry with you through this season?
4. Are there any that are easier to give than receive?
May you find time in this busy and miraculous season for the silence to be still and listen. A time to go inward and reflect on your life and the meaning of this time of year. Happy Holidays to all.
Reposted from my Writing Prompts blog available at http://www.listeningtomylife.blog
Ardine Martinelli 
I like this one very much , Ardine. Right now, as our society offers up despair on every side, paradoxically, I am being gifted with wonder. I am in wonder at the goodness of many people whose light warms and guides me. Thank you.
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Oh Rita thank you, I am so glad to hear you are living in wonder, can’t think of a better frame of reference. Hope healing continues.
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