At this time of year, it's customary for friends and family to gather and celebrate the joy of the season. Since I can't be with all of you, I've gathered my little family of friends here to wish each of you all the blessings your hearts can hold.

We're each from very different backgrounds and cultures, and may celebrate this season in very different ways. But inherent in all celebrations are love and light, and the hope for peace and harmony in the world. Each of you carries this spirit within you every day of the year and it has been an honor and blessing to have you in my life.

The following is from 'Anam Cara, A Book of Celtic Wisdom' by John O'Donohue. The title comes from the Gaelic 'anam' which means soul and 'cara' which means friend, and so means 'soul friend', and recognizes the ancient and eternal bond of friendship at the soul level.

"May you recognize in your life the presence, power, and light of your soul.

May your realize that you are never alone, that your soul in its brightness and belonging connects you intimately with the rhythms of the universe.

May you have respect for your own individuality and difference.

May you realize that the shape of your soul is unique, that you have a special destiny here,

that behind the facade of your life there is something beautiful, good, and eternal happening.

May you learn to see yourself with the same delight , pride, and expectation with which God sees you in every moment."

 

Merry Christmas, dear friend, dear anam cara. Thank you for the gift of your friendship. May the love and beauty that you bring to my life and to the world return to you a thousand fold and may the New Year bring you Magic and Miracles!