Since I last wrote a lot has happened! Let's see, at work my immediate boss quit and now I am guaranteed (as much as bureaucratic environments will guarantee anything - which ain't much, ask David) a promotion and possibly two promotions. How about that? I'm of mixed minds about it all, wanting to make sure I balance my time and continue on this path of self-care that I have embarked upon. But, it's nice to be told your work is valued.

On another note, my neighbor, Neasie, has a dear friend whom I've shared time & space with on several occasions and whose 17 year-old son just died in a tragic accident at work. It was, for me, a difficult week. I kept thinking of how that loss might feel, were it me who was his mother, and nothing but the reminder that this tragedy did not happen to me could ease the sadness.

People came from far and wide for the funeral and it was a view into a different world. During the services, there was a great expression of joy that he had gone to a better place. In the last days of his Life he had become saved / sanctified and, for them, that guaranteed his entrance into heaven. God would open his big book and find this 17 year-old child's name and he would be ushered into the place of perpetual joy and goodness. The heaviness of my heart was slow to ease, but eventually I rested in this version of possible endings because the family did.

Of course, I realize that these beliefs are not uncommon, they are shared by many around the world. But, I was struck by their healing power, by the comfort they brought to the family. It occurred to me, as I watched the transformation that took place on the faces of all those who Loved this troubled young man, that Faith, in and of itself, is a miracle. I believe it is by far the most important quality we humans possess. There was such a bounty of sadness on this day, and yet, because of their faith, a wealth of joy was also present. It made me feel good to be there, to share in the healing and to send Love into that gathering.

I stand in the power of my own faith that peace will find its way into the hearts of those who Loved this child and they will, in time, feel joy without the overlay of sadness at his passing.

Which brings me to the holiday season. Chanukah has begun; Winter Solstice, Christmas, Waqf al Arafa and Kwanza are all on their way (and doubtless other spiritually meaningful days of which I am unaware, but are no less important to the faithful who observe them). There are often lots of conversation about religion - its benefits and drawbacks (and that debate has as many opinions and perspectives has there are humans on the planet). As for me, I Love this time of year because the faithful celebrate and, when dedicated to their faith, work towards those qualities that are the best of human qualities.

This is the time of peace, cooperation, Love, joy, forgiveness, the passing of the old and celebration of new beginnings; a time for reflection, stillness and going within.

For many of us this time will be filled with shopping, bickering, partying, shopping, traveling to homes of the past and present, shopping and stress. I encourage you to take a break and remember the purpose of the season, in whatever way your faith compels you. Step away from the mundane and routine celebrations and breathe Faith into your observance. For your faith is cleansing, healing, empowering, strengthening and overcoming.

From me to you are wishes of great Love, Peace, and Joy during this season. May your Faith carry you there...

(My last day of work for the year is 12/22, so I'll write lots after the 25th) Be well my friends!