“Faith is taking the first step, even when you don’t see the whole staircase.” Martin Luther King, Jr., American Baptist minister and activist

We are in the throes of the holiday season with Hanukkah, Christmas and other celebrations as we leave 2022 behind and enter 2023! Unbelievable! In addition, Winter officially begins this week on December 21st with the Winter Solstice representing rebirth and a return to the light. It’s a time to rest, reflect, and vision what you would like to accomplish next. It might seem a little strange to rest and spend introspective time while engaging in holiday preparation and celebrations. Have faith! Each day is a new day and each day presents a new you! Each day you are taking a step continuing to move forward without knowing the outcome. Faith is believing without proof and trusting that all will be well!

While feeling happy, looking forward to, and preparing for our son and his family joining us for Christmas I learned, as many of you did, of the suicide of Stephen ‘tWitch’ Boss. I was saddened as I remembered the fun and joy he radiated as he danced. It brought back memories of my brother’s suicide as well as other people I’ve known who have taken their lives. I remember feeling shock, sorrow, guilt, helplessness; and I had lots of unanswered questions. I understand that death is a natural part of our life cycle and yet this understanding doesn’t prevent us from grieving and celebrating life at the same time. Have faith!

During these holidays you may feel a variety of emotions. It’s ok. Perhaps if you feel moments of sadness focus on the dance and joy of living. Remember, a loved one’s smile, sense of humor and fun! Laugh and giggle! Skip and jump! Shout out! Enjoy your beautiful Christmas tree or Menorah! Enjoy sharing a meal or just be present and available to listen. Celebrate! Vietnamese Buddhist monk, Thich Nhat Hanh, has said “Our faith must be alive. It cannot be just a set of rigid beliefs and notions. Our faith can evolve every day and bring us joy, peace, freedom, and love . . .”

 

Have faith in the unknown. Enter the mystery of faith with a sense of adventure and trust! Step into your holiday celebrations fully rested and feel a sense of what comes next. Maybe the details aren’t perfectly clear but your direction is! You’re choosing to move forward. Faith isn’t something you touch. It’s felt. Author, Catherine Pulsifer, has said “Faith is unseen but felt, faith is strength when we feel we have none, faith is hope when all seems lost.”

Be aware of your friends and family during these holidays. What is shown to the outside world isn’t always what’s going on in someone’s inner world. Be the healthiest you that you can be. Listen to your body and rest. Take time for your own inner reflection. Trust that you will be stronger to prepare your holiday celebrations and be available to help others. Maintain and fuel your inner flame of hope and love! I’ve learned that it’s ok to ask for help. It’s a sign of strength not weakness! Have faith!

I’m holding space for each one of you and sending lots of love to you! Merry Christmas and Happy Hanukkah if you celebrate. If there are other traditions that you celebrate I trust that they will be filled with love and grace!

I’m available for private coaching and channeled information sessions at Storm Wisdom on Tuesdays from 1p – 6p by appointment. Please call Storm Wisdom, (602)334-1204 to schedule. I’m also available by phone or Zoom. To schedule please go to victoriabarna.com.