This season beckons me to ask, "What am I preparing for?"
~ Jan Richardson
~ Jan Richardson
Each time this festive spate in the weeks of the year rolls around, I find myself looking for a spark, a sign, a silent message to invigorate my faith and belief in the goodness of life. Each year, I find something to carry me through to the next time. I am always, always grateful.
Some years, finding the message in the noise is very difficult. Finding the faith to hold onto what is wonderful in living when life can be so bleeding hard, well....
Other years, finding the message creeps gently into my awareness like a cat quietly curling into my lap for a purr and a snooze.
The point is, despite the world around me, if I ask- I receive. The renewal of faith is granted by Spirit without question. It's up to me, though, to ask for the Gift of Grace. So, each year, especially this time of year, I specifically ask and then with certainty, I wait.
And, as most things do in this tech world of ours, my moment of Grace was delivered to my email inbox.
This photo is of my friend, Donna's, beloved Grand Daughter, Carley. Carley and I have never met in person, but through e-mail I've watched her grow from her first day on Earth, to this little darling who awaits Christmas with anticipation and joy.
I chose this picture to share with you, not because of the red velvet, and especially not because of Santa's arm, for I know so many of us believe in different traditions and celebrate The Light in different ways. So, no, as dear as the suggestion of Santa is to me, that's not the reason.
The true reason, the absolute reason for sharing this is because of the expression on Carley's face. Look closely and see the surprise; the wonder; the excitement; the joy; the fun all rolled into that sweet child's face.
Look at the adoration and anticipation with which she presents her small gift of milk and cookies. She shares what she believes will please the most. It has nothing to do with price or content. She gives what she believes will bring joy.
For me, this is a brilliant photo. And, I applaud the photographer for such a lovely composition. And, I thank my friend for sharing it with me.
Because long after the holiday season has passed, and the decorations are boxed tight for another year, this image will carry me through times when my faith is a little weak. Carry me when my spirits are a bit low. Lift me when I need to see the truth.
This year, Carley is the Agent of Grace when I asked Spirit for my gift of Remembrance.
And, more than anything else you may receive this year, I am hoping you get your Moment of Grace.
Namaste' Till Next Time,
Holly aka She Who Is Graced
Some years, finding the message in the noise is very difficult. Finding the faith to hold onto what is wonderful in living when life can be so bleeding hard, well....
Other years, finding the message creeps gently into my awareness like a cat quietly curling into my lap for a purr and a snooze.
The point is, despite the world around me, if I ask- I receive. The renewal of faith is granted by Spirit without question. It's up to me, though, to ask for the Gift of Grace. So, each year, especially this time of year, I specifically ask and then with certainty, I wait.
And, as most things do in this tech world of ours, my moment of Grace was delivered to my email inbox.
This photo is of my friend, Donna's, beloved Grand Daughter, Carley. Carley and I have never met in person, but through e-mail I've watched her grow from her first day on Earth, to this little darling who awaits Christmas with anticipation and joy.
I chose this picture to share with you, not because of the red velvet, and especially not because of Santa's arm, for I know so many of us believe in different traditions and celebrate The Light in different ways. So, no, as dear as the suggestion of Santa is to me, that's not the reason.
The true reason, the absolute reason for sharing this is because of the expression on Carley's face. Look closely and see the surprise; the wonder; the excitement; the joy; the fun all rolled into that sweet child's face.
Look at the adoration and anticipation with which she presents her small gift of milk and cookies. She shares what she believes will please the most. It has nothing to do with price or content. She gives what she believes will bring joy.
For me, this is a brilliant photo. And, I applaud the photographer for such a lovely composition. And, I thank my friend for sharing it with me.
Because long after the holiday season has passed, and the decorations are boxed tight for another year, this image will carry me through times when my faith is a little weak. Carry me when my spirits are a bit low. Lift me when I need to see the truth.
This year, Carley is the Agent of Grace when I asked Spirit for my gift of Remembrance.
And, more than anything else you may receive this year, I am hoping you get your Moment of Grace.
Namaste' Till Next Time,
Holly aka She Who Is Graced
13 comments:
Thank you so much, Holly, for the beautiful words written that accompanying the picture. To our family, Carley is truly the reason to celebrate...she is our blessing.
Merry Christmas to you and all who follow your blog, many blessings for the coming year.
It's a gorgeous and amazing photo! Nothing is as beautiful as the innocence, delight and trust of a child!
Thank you for sharing this gift with us Holly. I was captured by this adorable child's face and saw everything you pointed out. Thanks to you I have received my gift of grace too. Merry Christmas!
Awww Holly..I was thinking this as I looked on this picture..someone captured her joy and wonderment perfectly!! What a delightful and sweet shot!!
My Dear Holly..may you find many many moments of grace this coming year. You have offered so many up to me..that I may be able to do the same! Holiday blessings my friend! Love, Sarah
when we open our hearts...miracles creep in!
What an adorable picture, I am glad you recieved this email. There is nothing like children to make our hearts sing. Big Hug my friend!
What a wonderful picture Holly! Isnt the web amazing, to be able to keep touch like that? Hope all is well in your world!
Holly, for a moment, I thought that it was your Silent Sunday photo. It took my breath away, and speaks volumes.
Wishing you a year full of your own magical moments.
Beautiful...
many moments of joy to you Holly
xoxoxo Ribbon
Yes indeed - beautiful, thank you Holly. :-)
Perhaps more certainty will invite my moment of grace. Thank you for sharing yours.
Dear Holly,
This is a fabulous picture and your interpretation of it is a reminder that we need to carry with us daily.
This quote came in my email this morning and now I share it with you as I see it to be fitting - "God does not give His grace as He gives His sunshine - pouring it out on all alike. He discriminates in spiritual blessings. He gives strength according to our need. His eye is ever on us in tender, watchful love, and what we need He supplies." -- J. R. Miller
Merry Christmas to you and yours,
Lynn
That picture is the essence of childhood Christmas wonder. I can see why you chose it.
Happy Holidays! :)
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