I did feel better after my encounter with the leaf collectors. The physical exercise no doubt helped, and the fresh air, but also it reminded me that it is almost impossible to calculate or to know what the smallest notice, the most minor kindness, done deliberately and without ceremony, can do to lift the spirits of one who might need it more than we imagine.
In this time that seems so dark and hopeless, when the news cycle bombards us, and when personal trials seem overwhelming, I’m cherishing this Advent reading, praying, and waiting. Together.
At a certain point, the suspense of counting down the days till Christmas was eased with the introduction of little chocolate treats behind each window. That was, it turns out, the top of a very slippery slope.
Do you make your own Advent Calendars? Share your photos, ideas, and inspirations with us in the comments–or be inspired by the ones in our post!