It's finally here: the seasonal preparation for one of the world's favorite holidays. Advent, in all its hot-chocolate-drinking, carol-singing, neighbor-helping glory.
I know when I was growing up, Advent was one of my favorite times of the year--almost more so than Christmas, though I never really understood why. We tend to take this season for granted, especially when we consider the fact that most of us think of this season when we hear the term "Christmas." Because Advent is that special time of preparation that gives us all tinglies in our tummy because it's a season of anticipation.
Whether we're anticipating toys, the end of the nonstop commercializing, or a big old turkey leg; I think we can all agree that this season can really bring out the best in us. Not all the time, of course. It can be incredibly lonely or sad to those of us who don't have that Star of Bethlehem to journey towards, but for those of us who are warmed by its light, it's the sharing of it with everyone else that makes the season really enjoyable.
We're talking about the lead-up to Christmas--peace to men of good will. Joy to the world! The literal birth of Jesus! It's this element that looms in the background, soaking into our lives and helping remind us about what makes us the best versions of ourselves. It's a season that so deeply affects us, whether we believe the same thing or not, that it's become the source of all of this craziness once a year. Yes, the commercialization comes a-creeping just after Halloween (and often times before it), but with it comes the desire to treat our brother with dignity and respect. To go out of our way to give of ourselves--of our time, our money, our selves--out of good will toward our fellow man.
This season is not one to be taken lightly. It's one of those times that can make or break us: bring out the best or the worst. It's a time of anticipation, of preparation, and of improvement. A time to look closely at ourselves, but also a time to look outward and to give of ourselves. Take this time to really reflect on what makes this time so special to you specifically: and use it to make yourself the best that you can be.
Much love,
Ceci Galvin
CYM, St. John the Evangelist
