Canvas Joy

Today, most stores are closed, and the day is set aside for celebrating miracles, community, faith, and family.  In Maryland, the weather is cloudy and overcast, yet I'm confident, that in homes, there is warmth, laughter, love and light.  My family is dispersed along the east coast (you have a great picture of my mom on my home page!), and I miss sharing time with them.  Still, my "extended family" is all around me, and I see them in cards, memories, music, shared spiritual reflections, and photographs. 

One dear friend shared a youtube video with me yesterday that I've passed along and wanted to share with you.  "The Lost Generation" is a pallindrome (same backwards as forwards) that was written by a 20 year old woman as a school project.  It will send chills down your spine and you will find yourself praying that her vision of hope becomes a reality.

As I think about the approaching New Year, I also reflect on this quote from Joseph Campbell:  "We must be willing to get rid of the life we've planned, so as to have the life that is waiting for us."  My prayer for all of you, regardless of who or what surrounds you today, surround yourself with memories of loved ones, of reaching out in service to others, of simple pleasures of a hug, a smile, a "thank you," of the miracle of music, of nature, of hope and gratitude for what is possible.

Each one of us is more powerful that we dare to believe.....  on this day of miracles, believe that you can make a difference....  you do to me!

Blessings to all!