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And Advent Begins with Hope

So we saw the close of yet another liturgical year with Christ the King and welcomed the start of a new one with the First Sunday of Advent.  Thinker demonstrated her excitement with the dramatic flip of the Church missal back to the beginning. 

It's been a busy time for the family as of late, but I have at the very least begun to mentally prepare for all the hubbub of the upcoming weeks....shopping, wrapping, brainstorming, baking and more shopping.  Past years have been so busy with the outside activities of the season, that at times, the true spirit of Advent gets lost. 

It's so easy to lose that special spirit, when there is so much to be done.  We are meant to be waiting....and hoping.  And that's tough for a busy Mom.  This last Sunday's homily brought to mind that special time of anticipation that I often lose each year due to the many tasks that are awaiting me.

Mentally, I do think, I'm trying to freeze time a bit.  Stop some random activity to truly embrace the waiting and the hoping that I want to instill into the depths of my being.  Breaking from traditional habits can be tough.  This MUST happen for a happy Christmas.....or so I tend to think.  Truth be told, not much HAS to happen to have a happy Christmas.  Where there is health, love and warm coats, there is enough.

Society today wouldn't have you believe that's enough.  Black Friday deals overran my inbox, my mailbox and even textbox!  Coupons galore have cluttered my kitchen, kid's toys magazines are scattered throughout and our neighbors have begun to hang the Christmas lights.  It's that time of year again, and as I sit back and watch it all transform around me, I wonder, does anyone have that spirit of waiting anymore?

For our day and times, waiting is torture.  I can totally relate.  I get anxious when I have to pull ahead in the drive through line, as my cheeseburger is taking a few minutes too long.  Oh No! People are waiting behind me!  I guess the thought of having others wait on me is irritating to me, as I know, no one likes to wait, including me!

It's interesting to me, that we are forced to wait during Advent, that the Church in it's wisdom recognizes how waiting peaks interest, excitement and delayed gratification.  The Church is helping us to emphasize each step in the waiting process, especially with the Advent wreath:  Each candle plays it's part with Hope, Love, Joy and Peace. 

So this first week, is about Hope.  Waiting is tough.  Let Hope fill you, sustain you and help to forge forward with the Hope of Christmas.  We are like the silent flying birds of the sky, quietly making our way in the hope of a new destination, taking our time to rest, reflect, and move forward anticipating the glorious warmth of a new sky. 
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