Blessed is the season which engages the whole world in a conspiracy of love. -Hamiton Wright Mabie

Hamilton Wright Mabie was an American essayist and lecturer in the late 1800’s and early 1900’s. He is credited with several children’s books and addressed the culture, work, and events of America during his lifetime. The quote seen above is one for which he is most famous.

Are you feeling the conspiracy of love and seeing the miracles yet? Have you caught the holiday fever? We’re busy with trees and secret gift-giving, and the joy is contagious!

In the story, Lemony Snicket’s – The Lump of Coal, the author, Brett Helquist, writes about a lump of coal who can think and talk. One of the things he says is:

“The holiday season is a time for storytelling, and whether you are hearing the story of a candelabra staying lit for more than a week or a baby born in a barn without proper medical supervision, these stories often feature miracles.”

It truly is a season of miracles, regardless of your faith orientation, this time of year is filled with wonder. And here’s a secret that will help you recognize those miracles. Pay attention. Yes, we have so many things to do and think about and so much to get done. But, if you pay attention you’ll discover smiles you hadn’t noticed before, the magic of sights, sounds, and smells that you’d forgotten about, and your heart might just melt at the wonderment in the little ones you meet by chance.

This season truly is a most wonderful time. Give yourself a special gift this season. Be present to the miracles and allow yourself to participate in the conspiracy of love that’s all around you. We think you deserve a break from the day-to-day to celebrate the joy!

Joy is what happens when we allow ourselves to recognize how good things really are. -Marianne Williamson