More Then Christmas (Part 2 - Peace)

We easily get consumer minded at this time of year. So, I am doing a blog series over the next four weeks on things to think about. Positive things as the year comes to a close. These are the four things the advent candles stand for. But, you don't have to be Christian to appreciate them.

As an Episcopalian I celebrate Advent. It's the four weeks before Christmas. Each week has a different meaning. I talked about them in a blog series years ago. "Forgotten Holidays: Advent".

https://homewithmommy-fran.blogspot.com/2014/12/forgotten-holidays-advent-part-4.html

1. Hope
2. Peace or Preparation
3. Joy
4. Love

http://www.stjohns-saginaw.org/advent-wreaths-arnt-just-for-church/

Peace or Preparation:

I think most people want peace. Peace means we get along. We are agreeing to disagree or have compromised. Peace brings happiness. This is a good week for peace to be featured.

A lot of people know "shalom" means "hello" and "goodbye" in Hebrew. Do you know that is also means "peace"? This week is Hanukkah. Christians and Jews are thinking about peace. My guess is many other people are thinking about peace too. After all, as the end of the year nears, it would be nice if it could end peacefully.

This is also a time for preparation. In Christianity we prepare for the coming of Christ. For us, christmas doesn't actually start until Christmas day. It ends after 12 day on the Epiphany. The day the three kings arrived to see Jesus.

But, we are all preparing for celebrations and closing out the end of the year business. We are also preparing for what is to come early in the new year. Some of us are preparing for the future too.

Peace means calm.
Peace means quite.
Peace means we are getting along.
Peace means common ground.
Peace means finding happiness.

But, to me, peace can be found in a lot of places.

Peace is in watching your sleeping child.
Peace is in the smile of someone you love.
Peace is in a hug with someone you love.
Peace is in a sunny day.
Peace is in a quite, clear, starry night.
Peace is in walking around seeing the Christmas lights.
Peace is in a family dinner with favorite food and loving company.
Peace is sitting down with a glass of wine and a good tv show right before bed.
Peace is in your child's voice.
Peace is when you close your eyes and your body settles.
Peace is in the satisfaction of a good game ending or beginning.

This week I hope we all find peace in many places. Because peace can be simple. Peace can be free. Peace can come in the pleasure we take preparing for things we look forward to. Peace cam also be easy to find, if you open your mind to what can bring peace.

Peace
Shalom
Paz (Spanish for peace)
Paix (French for peace)
Pace (Italian for peace)

Peace out!!!

He was just 5 in this picture