Some of God’s greatest gifts
are unanswered prayers.
Garth Brooks
Looking back on 2012, what do you count among your best gifts? My favorite is the freedom to choose what to put my attention on: the highs, the lows, the blessings, the lack, the closed doors and the ones I have yet to knock on. After the unbearable loss of innocents last week, what might be the purpose in the seemingly senseless pain we suffer? The indomitable human spirit grows even stronger when we ponder: How might we spin pain into gold, transform wounds into wisdom, find courage for forgiveness and compassionate action?
Big questions can overwhelm and healing takes time so for now, thank Goddess for community that helps us embrace our emotions, pick up the pieces and begin to remember that there might be a gift in every experience. To keep our attention on the present and the good we can do in the face of helplessness, a Powerful Goddess recommends the “Elfing” tradition of spreading holiday cheer. Leave a surprise package of goodies at the front door of your friends and family (with a note suggesting they do the same to to others.) Make the tradition your own by doing someone a kindness unbeknownst to the recipient.
May we see the gifts of 2012 with gratitude no matter what. May they move us closer to a place of peace, of seeing the wisdom at every turn, of expanding our ability to be gentle with ourselves and present to the people who matter.
Click on “Leave a Comment” (above left) to share:
How will I remember 2012 best?
What/Whom did I welcome (back) into my life?
How far did I travel–in miles, in accepting myself and in creating possibilities?
Have the most meaningful of holidays!
xoxox
Sharky
© Sharon Birke
PowerfulGoddess@me.com
201 697 1947
Portraits of the Goddess in Every Wife & Mother
xoxox
Powerful Goddess Portraits 
Dec 18, 2012 @ 15:00:27
WoW!! Beautiful Images with Beautiful words 😉 For me I went thru a lot of pain along side my son in his Baseball triumphs and in the end rejection. Which for him made his initial entry into HS difficult. The silver lining was when Baseball ended for him he tried Water Polo and well….He was named Captain of the Freshman team!
Dec 19, 2012 @ 13:54:32
Congratulations on looking out for that silver lining, Deb–Every child needs a present and supportive mom like you! On second thought, your entire family is a gem. 😉
xoxox
Dec 21, 2012 @ 21:56:56
Two Thousand Twelve…will be remembered as the year where I regained forward momentum to clear up past setbacks. Things happen that we may or may not have control of but if we stop, take our time rather than rushing in then the paths become clearer and the resolve will appear. Slow down and smell the “roses” along the way.
It will also be remembered for having enjoyed a place to express thoughts about worthy topics while being treated to amazing photography of beautiful Goddesses, Sharky’s family & places of adventure. How fun is that?!! 🙂
Merry Christmas
Mountain
Jan 03, 2013 @ 12:50:34
Your wisdom and reassuring presence here affirms the power of the feminine in so many ways, Mountain–Thank you for always being open in sharing!
xoxox