Light
Light
The visible reminder of Invisible Light.”
~ T.S. Eliot
Yesterday, in keeping with the tradition for the day after Thanksgiving that I picked up during our tenure living in the U.S., I decorated for Christmas.
It looks a bit different this year: just two simple non-traditional trees—one in the living room, the other in the TV room. That’s it, that’s all. Done.
No shiny baubles, no faux old-fashioned ornaments hanging from green boughs amidst coloured lights, no red and green anything. Just two simple lighted trees that remind me to keep my focus on the Source of all light.
As we head barreling toward December and the annual season of want, I’m intentionally settling in and embracing contentment and stillness. Instead of looking out, I’m turning in; I’m looking up.
It’s been a year full of reminders of how precious and fleeting this life is, and of looking beyond what I see with my limited human vision. It’s natural and right that this looking beyond carries into the remaining weeks of the year as we celebrate the gift of Love coming down.
Oh sure, in the coming weeks I’ll enjoy what the season has to offer in terms of music, mandarin oranges, chocolates, shortbread cookies, and butter tarts; and I’m looking forward to special times with family and friends. But I’m going to be more intentional about stillness than ever.
No glitz, no glitter, just leaning in to Love.
I agree, Linda. As empty-nesters, my husband and I are celebrating with the grown “kids” in Phoenix this year. That leaves us home alone for most of December. I had made a firm decision to not pull out all the decorations. But I do like your idea of one non-fussy tree to shine the light and keep us focused on Him. Thanks
Gerry and I discovered the blessings of quiet Christmas’ at home when we were living in the US. We would journey back to Canada for an early celebration with our kids and Christmas Day became a restful and peaceful time.
I love this tree!
Me too! I’ve been dreaming of having one like this since last year!
Oh, Linda, I love the trees and how they remind you to be intentional. Our Christmas will look different this year, too. I am planning on simplifying my decorations, and considering just a small tree instead of our usual great big one. I yearn for simplicity. “Leaning into Love.” How beautiful that is.
I hope you enjoy the peace of the season, Karen, as you too lean into love. 🙂