“Gracious acceptance is an art – an art which most never bother to cultivate. We think that we have to learn how to give, but we forget about accepting things, which can be much harder than giving…. Accepting another person’s gift is allowing him to express his feelings for you.”
―Alexander McCall Smith
Who has given you a gift through their gracious acceptance of something you had to offer?
For the third week of Advent a pink, or rose colored, candle is lit, representing joy. It doesn’t really signify seeing the world through rose-colored lenses, but would it really be so terrible if you did?
What is currently bringing you joy?
The bright berries of the pyracantha bush draw in the birds, who not only gorge themselves, but also get drunk off a mild toxin in the berries. It seems that people are not the only ones who can’t resist a seasonal overindulgence. Just be careful not to imbibe and fly into windows.
What is your favorite holiday indulgence?
In the Celtic tradition the oak is king of the summer realms, but holly rules over the world of winter. When all around it has faded to dull browns and greys, the holly shines forth its bright green and red undaunted. Perhaps it’s undaunted because it’s so well armed with sharp thorns.
What helps you to show your colors when things around you feel drab and lifeless?
“Until we can receive with an open heart, we are never really giving with an open heart.”
― Brené Brown
What have you recently received with an open heart?
