On this first Sunday of Advent I put on layers of warm clothing and set out for my annual harvesting of green boughs from the generous pine trees who share my homespace. One large bough of red pine leans precariously over the river, offering easy access to its lower branches. I choose four branches of abundant pliant pine, asking the tree's permission. Indoors, I arrange the boughs around the metal advent circle, place four tall green candles in the holders, and feel the first breath of Christmas Spirit. Why green? Well, first because they're the only new candles I have! But on another level, they are the best colour for a season so full of hope. Advent awakens each year fresh longing in our lives for love and gladness. As Jean Houston teaches: Christmas is about yearning for something to come into the world. It's the story of the birth of love, of hope, of a Holy Child in huge danger of being destroyed, bringing a new order of possibility into the world, needing to be protected and nurtured so it may grow into a free and luminous, numinous being.
Let the longing begin!
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