"Each day holds a surprise. But only if we expect it can we see, hear, or feal it when it comes to us. Let's not be afraid to receive each day's surprise, whether it comes to us as a sorrow or a joy. It will open a new place in our hearts, a place where we can welcome new friends and celebrate more fully our humanity." 

                                                             ~ Henri Nouwen

Being ready for a surprise each day reminds me of the Advent calenders I so loved as a child and as a parent of young children. What a delight to open a little window or door and discover the gift inside. Some calendars held images related to Christmas, some held quotes, some... pieces of chocolate.

Whether or not you are familiar with Advent calendars, whether or not you celebrate Christmas, imagine opening a window to life's gifts today.

Consider doing this each day until December 25, or beyond until the end of the year, or beyond into always.

Let's be ready today to receive a gift. Yes, it may come disguised as a challenge but may we willing to believe that, no matter what it looks like, today's surprise can open our hearts and lead us to experience greater love, wisdom, compassion, beauty, courage, joy...all the awesome gifts of Spirit.

Wishing you child-like faith and delight in life,
Charlene
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FAITH: May you believe. (from The Twelve Gifts of Birth)

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(c) 2012 Charlene Costanzo 

Charlene Costanzo is the author of  The Twelve Gifts series of books:
The Twelve Gifts of Birth
The Twelve Gifts for Healing
The Twelve Gifts in Marriage
The Thirteenth Gift 
Touchstones: Stories for Living The Twelve Gifts 

December 17, 2014

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