Daily Meditation for January 3, 2023

There was a huge array of beautifully wrapped Christmas packages in the middle of the circle. A group of women sat eagerly waiting to begin the process of sharing them. There were large flat boxes, there were small bags, there were odd-shaped packages, all very enticing. Exchanging gifts can be an exciting time. As the wrapping is ripped off, there are smiles and comments about the contents. Responses of many kinds are made about what one sees. What about the gifts that cannot be wrapped? Do we appreciate the kindness, the selflessness, the acceptance, and the love that others share? Do we appreciate the person who greets us with a smile, the one who helps with dishes without being asked, the one who remembers to pray for me every day? Maybe we have eyes and hearts open enough to see and feel the gifts within myself and others.

By Michon Lanners, OSB