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Chrismons decorate a large fir tree in our church.
On Saturday, I attended an Advent Quiet Day led by my friend Brenda. She asked us to contemplate receiving gifts, being a better receiver. Having quiet time in the midst of the bustle of Christmas preparations was a gift that I was there to receive.
I wrote this in my journal.
Gifts abound. Friends who respect and care for me, a family that not only needs me but wants me. The obligations of mothering are fewer as my children become adults. I am given the gift of watching now, watching them be who they are. This watching fills my heart with pride. Sisters–their strong bond keeps them grounded and loved.
For you yourself created my inmost parts; you knit me together in my mother’s womb. Psalm 139
That was long ago.
From my mother’s womb,
I have strayed and lost my way.
I have tarried too long in the weeds.
My hands are scarred.
My feet are swollen and sore.
I cannot wait.
My impatience is debilitating.I must take time to keep watch and wait.
The darkness of the winter night
soothes my wandering, busy mind.Rest.
Wait.
Watch.
Recognize the need to walk on.
Take the long road.
The journey will guide you.
Keep walking.–Margaret Simon
My Christmas wish for you is that you will have time to sit in silence, reflect on your journey, and prepare for the coming of Christ and the coming of a new year.
Reflections on the Teche 
Thank you for your words and your blessing. I can so relate with the words, “The obligations of mothering are fewer as my children become adults.” This is hard. This is what I wrote about today. Have a Merry Christmas, Margaret!
Yes, you have struck a chord that is resonating in many hearts. Beautiful poem Margaret. Thank you and Merry Christmas.
I love your poem, Margaret, “keep walking” is a message to remember. Enjoy the quiet of the holidays as well as the exuberance!
Recognize the need to walk on.
Take the long road.
The journey will guide you.
Keep walking.
Just love this, Margaret. Thank you for this reminder. And, Merry Christmas to you and your family – enjoy the holidays!
Margaret, What is an Advent Quiet Day? I’m intrigued! It sounds heavenly!! Merry Christmas my friend!!!
Just like it sounds. A day dedicated to quiet reflection.
Merry Christmas to you Margaret and what a wonderful year you’ve had đŸ™‚
I love the idea of an Advent Quiet Day. I would like to do that for my friends- you did some beautiful writing on that day! Psalm 139 is one of my favorites!
Margaret, I’ve come back to read your poem several times since you’ve posted this, and realize I haven’t told you that it moves me so much. I love it.
Thanks for the inspiration.