Reflections: Memories, Hope and Grace

I don't know about you, but this time of year is always so BUSY!  Work deadlines, buying and shipping Christmas gifts, sending out or responding to Christmas cards, baking, travel preparations... plus routine chores and bill paying!  It's a swirl of activity!

Colliding with this swirl are the memories of Years Past:  the Family of Childhood competing with the Family of Today; how Mom baked the ham or candied apples; the sharing of Christmas secrets...  It seems that our mind and heart are racing to understand where we have come and where we are going.  And the innocence of childhood has transformed into our adult faith and belief systems.

Images of Childhood

Questions also arise at this time of year:

• Do we believe in the Reason for the Season?
• Have we become too materialistic?
• What would happen if we spent within our means?

As I listen to some people, it seems that they are just trying to survive... due to past hurts, family deaths, declining health, poor finances, and a myriad of other modern day ailments.

Images of Adulthood

While traveling through San Francisco two years ago at the holiday season, I came across the World Tree of Hope (click to learn more).  When I saw it, the tree was located in a nave of the City Hall.  (This year it may be found in Grace Cathedral.)

People from all over the world send in a wish for the world.  These wishes are inscribed on white origami cranes (an Asian symbol for happiness, good fortune, longevity and hope).  A beautiful way to gather positive thoughts and energy for the world!

Images of Hope
(RWF World Tree of Hope, San Francisco)

In these times where past and present swirl, collide and compete,I have found that the dialogue skills of awareness and compassion go a long way!  By noticing what I am feeling and talking to a Loved One or friend, doors begin to open.  Sometimes I am heard.  Sometimes I listen to others.  Sometimes new hopes and wishes begin to grow... and the swirl, collision, and competing energies lessen their grip on me.

How fitting it is that Memories, Hope, and Grace transect at this time of year!

Blessings, good fortune and hope to you this Holy Season!

Larry Gardepie

Dialogue San Diego Consulting

(click on link for website)