On the Sixth Day of Christmas: Embracing Presence

On the sixth day of Christmas, my True Love gifted me something invaluable: Presence. Yesterday, the final day of our festive celebrations, marked the departure of our cherished Christmas visitors—our daughter and her boyfriend. In the past, such days were overshadowed by a sense of impending loss, a preoccupation with the ‘goodbye.’ However, this year, I approached the day with a renewed mindset.

I consciously savored each moment, treating it as a precious gift. From engaging conversations to a playful board game session, from sharing several meals (including a gourmet breakfast crafted by my son) to the drive to the airport, every instance was embraced as a cherished time-gift.

Reflecting on the week, it’s evident that this visit was more than just enjoyable—it added a beautiful finishing touch to our festive celebrations. The art of being present is not habitual; it demands constant effort, especially when our default is to escape the present with distracting thoughts and emotions. Yesterday, I consciously anchored myself in each moment. Rather than playing the entertainer or overextending myself, I listened to my inner thoughts and responded naturally to each unfolding situation.

Today is a new day, and it’s easy to slip back into a routine of inattention. However, I’m reminded of how, through mindfulness, I was able to cherish most moments as they occurred yesterday, focusing on the present rather than on unfinished tasks or upcoming farewells.

These six days of Christmas reflection have been a gift in themselves. I’ve been mindful of the unique offerings of each day. Today, I remain attentive, anticipating the gifts it will bring, moment by moment. My True Love, the Infinite Mystery, has bestowed upon me much to ponder and embrace. Observing the daily gifts has been a counterbalance to the constant stream of negativity in our world. I’ve learned to receive each moment as a gift, an opportunity to live with intention and to act in the here and now in the ways available to me.

I invite you to embrace this moment as a gift too, and explore what living moment by moment might offer you. May you find your unique place, utilizing your gifts and living life to its fullest potential.