What Child is This? Tuesday, Dec 20 2022 

Culture and Everyday Life and Faith and Family and Holiday , , , , Mary K. Doyle 9:50 am

Do you know this baby’s name? Most of you will recognize this ornament as a representation of Jesus, even though it’s unlikely that Jesus looked like this. (Jesus was of Middle Eastern descent and hid with his family in the African country of Egypt. He was probably darker complected with dark hair and had Middle Eastern features.)

Amazingly, we only require a hint to grasp the meaning of an image. And we have many that represent Jesus and Christianity. A star in the sky reminds us of the star of Bethlehem that led shepherds and kings to the newborn Christ child, the anointed one. See a cross and we contemplate the great sacrifice–Jesus’ offering of himself for our eternal salvation. Spot a simple fish symbol on a bumper sticker, and we know that driver is probably a believer in Jesus and professes to walk the talk of Christianity.  

In this season of hope, we have so many generally recognizable symbols in addition to those that are faith based. From evergreen trees, especially those in the spruce family, that trigger our thoughts to Christmas trees to reindeer reminding us of Santa’s sleigh, holiday cheer is everywhere.

May our holidays be rich in meaningful symbols, loving memories of the people who cared and supported us to this point, and enjoyable moments of sharing, giving, and humbly receiving. And may we all know peace in 2023.

***The holidays add extra burdens in managing loved ones with dementia. Reach out to your caregiver friends and relatives with an extra hug, note or text, or a plate of healthy food this season. They need more than you’ll ever realize. For more ways to help, see my books, Inspired Caregiving, Navigating Alzheimer’s, and The Alzheimer’s Spouse.

If you’ve read any of my books, I’d be honored if you wrote a short review on Amazon.

 

Another Door Opens Tuesday, Jul 14 2015 

Culture and Everyday Life and Family and Perspective , , , , Mary K. Doyle 12:14 pm

The saying is that when one door closes, another opens. This belief is biblical as well. We simply have to ask. For everyone who asks receives, and everyone who searches finds, and for everyone who knocks, the door will be opened (Matthew 7:8).

That “perfect” job we recently were laid off from, the devoted pet that passed away, or the lengthy relationship that ended will always hold a place in our heart. Nothing can replace something that was meaningful to us. And some losses are incomparably greater than others. Their absence can be excruciatingly painful. The fact is that they once were ours, gifts to be thankful for and appreciated forever.

We can hold onto the hope that the future offers us treasures that will be beautiful in another way. Often it is something we never could imagine.

Think carefully about what you desire. Keep positive and confident. And don’t forget to do that knocking and asking.

©2015, Mary K. Doyle

 

Happy, Hopeful Easter Friday, Apr 6 2012 

Everyday Life and Holiday and Perspective , , , Mary K. Doyle 3:07 pm

This weekend is the most important in the Christian calendar. On Good Friday we remember Christ’s sacrifice for the salvation of souls and solemnly move through the weekend until Easter Sunday when we rejoice again for the Resurrection.

Secularly, we celebrate the awakening of spring with flowers, bunnies, vibrant colors, and sweet treats. Children anticipate a basket of surprises and families and friends gather around the table for a holiday dinner. All around, it is a joyful day.

Whatever this time means to you, may you be blessed with the hope of new life and opportunity. May the fresh air and sunshine warm your spirit and spark creativity and goodness within. And may the light of Christ shine in and through you.

©Mary K. Doyle

 

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