This time of year has the potential to heighten our senses and bring joy to our lives. Yes, of course there are parties to throw or attend, gifts to make, give and receive, and food to lovingly prepare and then devour. On a more subtle level there is a thread of holiness, if you will, that runs through the month of December. I learned at service on Sunday that what I refer to as the "holiday season" has been considered a special time of year since long before the development of Judaism, Christianity, or Islam.
It seems that the ancients recognized this as a time during which the veil that separates "heaven" from humanity is thinnest. It is a time when the Divine spark within each of us recognizes and responds to the proximity of heaven. Hence, what we now call December became a time of great holy festivities.
This year my husband and I will host a holiday party at our home. Yes, the invitation stated "Holiday Party" and no, it is not in an effort to be PC. I believe that this time of year is - or at least can be - special to everyone, no matter their faith background. I am not a Christian, nor am I Jewish, Muslim, or Pagan, but I am a person of deep faith. My divine spark is humming with the recognition of itself everywhere I look...now more than at any other time of year.
As I go about my holiday festivities this year, I will make an extra effort to take a few breaths and truly feel the reasons behind my activities. I want to be engaged in things that bring me closer to the essence of the season, and the essence of my existence. I want these to be Holy Days.
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