Sundays are Spirituality Day here at Taking it to the Streets
When I was a child, my parents celebrated Advent. We may have had those Advent calendars – if so, I don’t recall. What I do recall was the sense of sacredness, of ritual and of building excitement. We had an Advent wreath on the dinner table and we’d light the appropriate calendar each night until, finally, it was Christmas Eve.
Christmas Eve, similarly had much ritual and excitement at my house. We were children then, so of course a lot of the excitement had to do with “Stuff” – the toys and games we eagerly awaited on Christmas morn.
But my mother instilled another type of excitement – that of spiritual birth.
Regardless of our spiritual path, of whether or not we practice Christianity or any organized religion, I think there is a sense of big change at this time of year as the “wheel of the year” is about to turn into another season.
Our beliefs and the stage of life in which we find ourselves drive a lot of how that expresses. But I think it’s worthwhile stepping outside of the DOING and asking a few question:
- For what or whom am I preparing?
- What is the meaning behind the rituals in which I engage?
- How can I deepen the meaning, devotion and joy of this season for myself and my family?
It strikes me that regardless of our personal beliefs, those of us in the Northern Hemisphere are preparing for a time of more darkness, of more interiority. To me it seems that any ritual or activity that focuses on some of these elements is key:
- Earth. We honor earth, as the season changes (perhaps a Christmas tree, a holiday wreath, a swag of evergreens on your mantel)
- Warmth. In the Northern Hemisphere we are heading into a colder time – the hearth, the fire of Advent candles, the turkey roasting in the oven and warming the house – bringing in warmth is key
- Family. Whether our family of origin, the family we created or the family we choose – it’s a time of year to celebrate the bonds of love.
- Children. As we approach the ‘elderhood’ of the year (as foliage and green ‘die’ for the winter) it is hopeful to remember birth. Thus children are important beacons of hope. Besides, it is fun to give them gifts and watch their delight.
- Nourishment. We live in an abundant age, and so winter starvation doesn’t seem imminent - in fact, for many of us, the surfeit of holiday calories is totally antithetical to the notion of lack. But it has not always been so. And our feasts remind us that, despite the outer appearances, God and the good earth have continued to provide for us.
- God. In however you honor the Creator of All that Is, it’s a good time to reconnect with awe, wonder and gratitude for the Divine.
In my own life, I have focused more on simplicity of late. I don’t get much into the cultural hoopla and materialism this time of year. But I do focus on the points above in my own ways: the wreath by my front door, my often-lit fireplace and candles, sending St. Nicholas chocolate letters to my grandnieces and grandnephews, a festive meal on Christmas Day and increased awareness of God’s goodness and my gratitude for my amazing life.
How about you? What are you doing that really resonates with your core beliefs? What part of the holiday season no longer has meaning for you – in fact, stresses you out? How do YOU want to prepare this year? As always, I really want to know!
I’m struggling to prepare this year Diane. I have a few ideas for gifts but since I know we will be traveling, I struggle. I think music helps and going to an advent service helps too.
Ah! You get to do simplicity whether that was your plan or not! Hope your holidays are very happy, Tammy! Where are you travelling to?
Colorado this year.
I also remember lighting an advent wreath and then, on Christmas Eve, celebrating a rather dramatic version of Jesus’ birth in the manger. As the youngest child, I was given the honor of placing him in his crib. Although I don’t light an advent wreath these days, I do light a candle in the evening, inviting its light and warmth into a few moments of meditation. Thanks for sharing your own evolving traditions.
Eleanor – I love that you light a candle each evening – I may add that to these pre-Solstice days. Despite 60 degree temps in Chicago (bizarre!) the days are still short. Great idea!
I think we prepared by constant choir practice, (in Latin), I remember singing and practicing for the Masses of Christmas. Advent was holy for me, singing we were also told the meaning of all the Holy Days. I remember the excitement of childhood Christmases and being busy, going from one house to another. Your piece reminded me of my days of yore when I visited many houses, filled with people and food and cheer. So many are gone now, so I am warm in my heart and spirit remembering those times. The materialism and commerciality of it all now seems so surreal. Trying to remain in Gratitude Daily and connecting with those I love and with whom I am honored to know. Lighting the candle within is the goal, keeping it lit and spreading light, throughout the winter is my goal.
Many Blessings to You and Yours! You are Joyful, Pleasing and Warm all year Dear Friend, and you are a gift we who know you cherish!
Julie – wishing you great light, warmth and cheer in this season of darkening days (outside) and lighter hearts (inside). Happy holidays to YOU!