Advent is such a mixed bag. It really is meant to be a time of quiet preparation, a time of emptying, a time to turn away from worldly allurements and turn to the coming light. But with all the parties, the special food, extra music rehearsals, the making and giving of gifts, shopping and on and on: so many things to distract. How did I get trapped here?

I read a little book every Advent by Caryll Houselander called “The Reed of God.” It helps me to focus. It helps me to get behind the reason why I do all these things. The quickening of life within me desires to be expressed in my giving of myself, my joyful presence or using my talents to prepare. Sometimes it needs more time of quiet to gestate. Sometimes my activity appears to be meaningless. Sometimes I must simply be an empty reed and allow the breath of God to flow through me to make beautiful music.

Pampas grass