Hope is being able to see that there is light despite all of the darkness.

— Desmond Tutu

Greetings, Inspired Seekers!

As I sit to write this newsletter that brings the year to a close, wild fires are raging in Tennessee, forcing many to be evacuated. A tragic plane crash has ended the lives of Brazilian athletes in their prime, and many were injured at Ohio State in what is being called a “terroristic act.” Sometimes, there is so much pain in the world that words are hard to come by. Especially at a time of year that is filled with celebrations.

But all of these celebrations have, at their center, hope. Hope for a future that is brighter, hearts that hold more compassion, peace in stressful times and comfort in a world that is hurting. And, so, our spirituality brings us back to this center. To this hope. To faith.

For the Christian there is hope through the celebration of the birth of the Christ Child.
For the Jew, there is hope in the lighting of candles signifying the miracle of the oil.
For the Earth Traditionalists, there is hope in the flame shining from the Yule log.
For the Buddhist, there is hope of enlightenment with the celebration of Bodhi day.

Yes, our sense of the sacred always provides a center of hope through faith. But we must wind our way into this labyrinth, seeking that center and, then, pause to rest there a while and revive our own spirit. And we do. Sometimes we saunter, sometimes we stride with purpose. At other times we trudge and at still others we wander, wondering if we will ever find that touchstone of hope that sits at our core. But, walk we must. For ourselves. For those we love. For strangers in need. For a world that is hurting. And together we will all grow stronger, fortified by faith. And hope. That we will offer to the world.

So, celebrate your faith. Hold those around you close. You are the hope for the world. And that, also, gives me faith! Wishing you the most happy and hopeful of holidays — all of them!

Grace-Fully Yours,
Reverend Deborah

Monthly Affirmation: I stand in hope. Always.

The Reverend Dr. Deborah Darlington is a seminary trained, ordained Interfaith Minister who celebrates the hope expressed in all traditions. For weddings and other sacred ceremonies, for inspirational speaking and spiritual coaching: 215 260 1611 or GraceMatters@TheSpaceForGrace.com.