December: A Time of Reflection and Renewal
The Christian faith’s season of Advent began this past Sunday, December 1. Many of us spent the past week in the U.S. giving thanks with family and friends.
As the calendar turns to December, it’s easy for anxiety to creep in as we think about all we have to do in the next 24 days. I know I’ve felt it. But as I sat down this morning, reflecting on the beginning of Advent, I realized the season offers an invitation to pause, not to rush.
Advent isn’t just a countdown to Christmas; it’s a cornerstone of the Christian faith—a time to prepare for the arrival of the Christ child. For Christians, it’s about anticipation and hope. But even for those who don’t observe Advent, the season can inspire reflection and renewal.
With Thanksgiving behind us, I’ve also heard from friends and family who’ve faced challenges and losses this past week. These stories have made me sad and reflective. December is filled with countless emotions and activities, but few live the idealized Hallmark holiday. Real life is much messier.
Today, I invite you to pause. Take a moment to step back from the busyness of the season. The shorter days and longer nights are nature’s way of asking us to slow down. In this stillness, we can reflect—not just on the year behind us but on the seasons of our lives.
Advent: A Time of Faith, Hope, and Preparation
In the Christian tradition, Advent is a season of waiting and preparation. It’s a time to reflect on the promise of new beginnings and the hope that sustains us. While deeply rooted in the story of Christ’s coming, its themes transcend belief systems. Advent invites all of us to prepare—not just for a holiday but for the next chapter in our lives.
For those of us navigating new seasons—aging, reinvention, or personal transitions—Advent asks us to slow down and consider:
- What are we preparing for? Maybe it’s peace after a challenging year, a new purpose, or a shift in how we see ourselves.
- How can we create space for that preparation? It might mean simplifying routines, embracing quiet moments, or letting go of what no longer serves us.
Advent reminds us that growth often begins in stillness. It’s not about doing more but being intentional. It’s about carving out space for what truly matters.
The Winter Solstice: Finding Light in the Darkness
The Winter Solstice, the longest night of the year, marks a turning point. The days begin to lengthen after this moment of darkness, and light gradually returns. The Solstice reminds us that even in the darkest times, the promise of renewal is always present.
Aging is full of similar turning points. Our identities shift, our priorities change, and we face transitions that ask us to let go of old expectations and embrace new opportunities. The Solstice offers a powerful metaphor for this journey: the light always returns, even in life’s darkest seasons.
As we approach this turning point, consider:
- What have I learned this year? Aging often brings wisdom, which is hard-earned through challenges. Take time to honor those lessons.
- What am I ready to release? The Solstice teaches us that letting go—of outdated expectations, clutter, or guilt—creates space for renewal.
This season reminds us that growth is often subtle and incremental, like lengthening days after the Solstice. Change doesn’t always announce itself loudly; sometimes, it begins with a quiet shift.
Aging, Reflection, and Renewal
As the year winds down, many of us feel the pull of reflection. For those of us in the later seasons of life, reflection becomes a cornerstone of growth. It’s not about nostalgia or regret—it’s about honoring where we’ve been and thinking about where we want to go.
Reflection invites us to ask meaningful questions:
- What moments brought me joy this year?
- What challenges helped me grow?
- What do I want to carry forward into the new year?
This process isn’t about fixing everything or achieving perfection. It’s about showing yourself grace, celebrating how far you’ve come, and setting gentle intentions for the road ahead.
The Gift of Preparation
Both Advent and the Solstice remind us of the importance of preparation. But preparation doesn’t have to mean a frenzy of tasks and to-dos. It can be as simple as physically, emotionally, or spiritually clearing space for what truly matters.
As we age, preparation becomes a gift we give ourselves. It’s a way of acknowledging that growth doesn’t stop at any age and that every season of life has the potential for renewal.
Here are a few ways to embrace this season of preparation:
- Create Space: Simplify your schedule or declutter your home to focus on what brings you joy.
- Find Quiet Moments: Journal, meditate or take a walk to reconnect with your thoughts and intentions.
- Set Gentle Goals: Instead of rigid resolutions, consider small shifts you can make, like prioritizing rest, reaching out to a friend, or exploring a passion you’ve put on hold.
Your Challenge
This week, I encourage you to reflect on the themes of Advent and the Solstice. What are you waiting for in your life? What light are you turning toward?
Let go of one thing that no longer serves you, whether it’s an expectation, a task, or a mindset. In its place, invite something new—hope, purpose, or even a moment of stillness.
I’m letting go of the need to fill every moment with productivity. This year, I’m focusing on being present and finding gratitude in the small things. What about you? What will you release to make space for what truly matters? Please email me and let me know your thoughts.
Closing Thoughts
Advent and the Solstice remind us that every ending is a beginning. As we let go of the past year, we create space for renewal and growth. Whether you find meaning in faith, nature, or personal reflection, this season invites us to pause, prepare, and embrace the light ahead.
Here’s to hope, renewal, and the beauty of the journey.