Fourth Day of Christmas: Lovers

How can I honor and help the children in my life and the children of the world?
6-Lovers-Rhodochrosite

Such a simple answer!  (But perhaps not so simple to put into action.)  The best way to help children is simply to love them!  I just have to remember that the essence of true love is giving what the recipient wants and needs, not necessarily what I’m willing to give.  A good way to love any child, from the over-scheduled to the attention-starved, is to stop, take time, and really listen to his/her wants, needs, and dreams. 

I don’t have any children in my family right now (still waiting patiently for grandchildren!), but I’ll keep this advice in mind when the opportunity arises for me to interact with children.

The theme for December 29:

Fifth Day, December 29, Religious Freedom and Tolerance Day (Faith).  This is the feast of Thomas Becket, a close friend and supporter of King Henry II of England, who appointed him Archbishop of Canterbury.  After his appointment, Becket opposed the king on issues affecting the church he now led.  He was assassinated for sticking to his principles and defending his faith against political interference.  What is the state of my spiritual life?  What do I have faith in?  How can I increase tolerance in myself and in the world?

I’ll read on this tomorrow.

Merry Christmas!