A View From Above

Today is the first Sunday of Advent, and as a very lapsed Catholic, I'm a bit torn about this celebration.  My mom used to light Advent candles on the 4 Sunday's prior to Christmas.  As a child, I saw this as the count down to Christmas, and felt the anticipation build for the 'big event'.  The reverence of the celebration was somewhat lost on me then. 

So, many years later, while reading the local newspaper, I came across this article and it got me thinking about the meaning of Advent again.  It speaks of Hope, Peace, Joy and Love.  Those feelings are cross-cultural, non-denominational and what we all long for in our lives, especially this time of year.  Reading this, I felt inspired to think more deeply about the ritual, about this season, and about how and where I experience Hope, Peace, Joy and Love in my life.  

http://www.vancouversun.com/life/Fighting+against+dark/5772198/story.html

I particularly liked this quote from Emil Brunner.

“What oxygen is to the lungs, such is hope to the meaning of life”

Shortly after reading that article, I received an email from someone who follows my Blog, with a link to the most amazing photos of our beautiful planet.  It is exquisite and moving, and looking at these photos reminds me that there is so much to be hopeful for.  Looking at the Earth from this perspective, it's clear we are all one and we all really have similar dreams and desires.  We each long for a deeper connection and for Hope, Peace, Joy and Love.

http://triggerpit.com/2010/11/22/incredible-pics-nasa-astronaut-wheelock/

I don't have an Advent wreath, but I do have candles, so I'm going to light one today and think about all of the things I feel hopeful for.

Gabrielle Gifford's miraculous recovery

An inspiring story of courage and determination, love and faith.
It reaffirms that we are capable of amazing things.

Gabrielle Gifford's miraculous recovery continues.

http://www.ctv.ca/CTVNews/Entertainment/20111115/giffords-interviews-111115/

http://bostonglobe.com/lifestyle/health-wellness/2011/11/15/gabrielle-giffords-painful-but-miraculous-comeback-after-shooting/rxNlwB7X6BXrCDjrxOLboK/story.html

If you are in the US, you can see the entire story here:
http://abc.go.com/watch/2020/SH559026/VD55153303/gabby-giffords--mark-kelly-courage-and-hope

Simple Inspiration

We can find inspiration everywhere in the everyday.  It's doesn't have to be a thunderclap or something that knocks us off our feet.  Yes, it can be a deep and enriching moment of wonder, but it can also just be something that makes us smile or recognize a connection with someone or nature.  Sometimes it ignites curiosity and creativity, or it is that awesome moment of AHA.  But, it can simply be the joy of walking through crunchy autumn leaves, or that warm feeling of inner-knowing when something is just right.

Often inspiration arrives when we least expect it - all we have to do is be open to the experience.

Here are a few things that I found inspiring enough to share.  The photos are from recent walks in the city of Vancouver, the video was sent to me today.

 Photo by V Gray

http://vimeo.com/31158841

What inspires you?  Stay curious and open to inspiration in what ever form it takes.   It's just waiting for you to notice.