Sunday, March 23, 2008

Awakening to hope

Chocolate frenzy Sunday.

Easter morning arrives steeped in religious significance.

And children scramble to unravel bunny lore in hope of finding chocolate eggs in the garden.

In pagan times, this weekend centered on the Saxon goddess Eastre, whose symbol was the Hare. The ancient spring festival was a time of rejoicing when it was believed that female and male energies were balanced. To ensure a bountiful spring, pagans honoured the gift of renewal this time of year represents and danced and sang in celebration.

I love the idea of renewal. That with everyday the opportunity to create anew awakens with each dawn. No matter the happenings of yesterday, today is a brand new day, a brand new opportunity. An unpainted canvas awaiting the paintbrush.

Author and historian, Barbara Kingsolver wrote, "The very least you can do in your life is to figure out what you hope for. And the most you can do is live inside that hope. Not admire it from a distance but live right in it, under its roof."

Living under the roof of hope, I aspire to a life of joy and contentment. Under the roof of hope, I live passionately and fearlessly. I cherish every moment knowing it is my best as I surrender and fall, in love.

This is Easter Sunday on the Christian calendar. A time of celebration. A time of reflection. A time to rejoice.

No matter the date on the calendar, or your spiritual belief, it is a day when hope spreads its wings and whispers a silent prayer of jubilation in honour of the wonder and joy of this day awakening to renewal.

I breathe deeply in the morning air. The birds twitter in the tree outside my window and spring awakens to the gentle warmth of the rising sun.

May your day be filled with blessings. May your soul sing a song of joy as hope fills your spirit and lifts you up.

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