As I reflect and remember about Advent this past year, I can't help but remember there was a cloud of sadness surrounding me. My mother died on November 15th and I struggled with realizing the "coming of Christ" as a newborn. She wasn't here to celebrate with us and it was all a blur. But thinking back on it now, every time I went to church during Advent, I always thought of her and how her presence at Mass, in the same pew up front, brought back beautiful memories. I know the discussion on the zoom was about how we are continually giving our children parental direction, and I realized that the parental direction that my mother gave me is what's making it possible for me to carry her legacy forward. The readings from Isaiah stirred up a song in my spirt, "Take me Back, to the place where I first received You, Take me back, take me back dear Lord, where I first believed" My "Advent Moments" happened for me every time I was reminded by others of the kindness and goodness my mother shared with them. This post helped me to realize this.
Blessings
Darlene Howard