Slow down, you move too fast

I loved Green Bay Diocese Bishop David Ricken’s homily yesterday, and not just because he broke out singing a very impressive rendition of Simon and Garfunkel’s Feelin’ Groovy right in the middle of it.

The Bishop’s message to slow down resonated with me because I am always in a hurry and I often think about how much I’d love to put this particular year behind me. He reminded us all that yesterday was the first day of advent (which sent me scrambling downstairs for my advent wreath), and that we can only find God in the present.

He sang,

Slow down, you move too fast

You got to make this advent last

Just tripping down the rosary beads

Praying a long and feeling holy

Ba da da da da da da

Feelin’ holy

It ocurred to me that my haste to say good-bye to 2020 threatened to diminish this most magical time of year. What a shame that would be. In fact, with a little perspective, this could be an especially fulfilling holiday season for everyone because so many people could benefit from so many small acts of kindness.

No matter what holiday season you celebrate, you could bring a lot of joy to the world by sending a card or letter to someone you know is struggling. Make a window visit to a housebound person who could use some cheering up. Send a gift card or pick up a tab in the drive-thru line. Take the time to offer a sincere compliment, or a friendly greeting.

I like the challenge Bishop Ricken suggested, to do one act of prayerful introspection for yourself, and one small act of kindness for someone else once a week throughout Advent.

I wish you all a magical December full of the kind of joy that’s easy to find and spread.

The first candle on the advent wreath sympolizes hope and I wish you all that as well.