Sunday, January 6, 2013

Epiphany

Yes, you're right.  I was going to talk seeds today, but after I went to church yesterday, I decided to talk about Epiphany, whereby the Christmas season is ended. 

Epiphany actually means "manifestation" and usually, of divine power.  A translation I found on the web said: 

"These days, the term "epiphany" has come to mean "realisation" or sudden insight or revelation, that is often a catalyst to change in a person's life or actions."  

This latter definition is what the subject of the sermon was last night, and I think this is a good time to reflect on things and sort out the coming year.  My word for this year is "Acceptance".  There are lots of things I need to learn to accept.... that I no longer have a little sister to confide in... that life carries on and our pets come in and out of our lives, some, sadly shorter times than others.... that I no longer work and my life is being spun anew like a spider with it's web... and I have the power to make it good or bad, within me. 


Here are the Magi, adoring the Little King in his manger.  In truth, the Magi did not reach the Christ Child, it is thought, until he was 2 or 3 years old, and long out of the humble stable.  He is depicted thus, however. 

I love the quizzical expression on the camel's face, if you enlargen.  

By next weekend, the Nativity scene will be stored away again, not to come out until Advent next year. 

I'm going to try to keep Christmas in my heart all year, though... and accept things as they come along in the new year, both new developments and new experiences.  

Keith and I are going to sit down this afternoon and talk about our goals here for this year.  We know we want a small greenhouse, a more substantial edifice than the hoophouse was last year. We want to talk about other things, too... refurbishing the big henhouse, and refineing the henspa. 

It's fun to plan for the new year, isn't it? 

14 comments:

  1. I love the nativities in the churches. During the Christmas season you will find me standing in front of the manger scene, taking in all the little details before I go find my seat.
    Most of my Christmas decor was put away on New Years, but the nativity stayed out and will be carefully packed away today.
    Yes, it's time to plan for the new year, and start working on taxes again. Ugh. I do not like that part.

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  2. Well I had to leave church this morning early as I had a grand coughing fit that wouldn't stop, but I did get to hear the sermon before I left. Our pastor talked about dreaming the impossible dream and overcoming obstacles in our lives. Epiphany is a good time to make plans. Without hopes and dreams would be a sad thing. Your Nativity display is beautiful.

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  3. what is neat is having someone on the same page as you as you go forward.

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  4. This is a most beautiful post Mary Ann.
    I was at mass this morning.
    My christmas things will be packed away for next christmas tomorrow.
    The story of the Magi is fascinating.
    Maybe you might also like to read (wikipedia) about the english catholic church..when Henry the 8th banned catholics as heretics..
    its amazing..
    happy days
    and a wonderful New Year.
    val

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  5. Sounds like you have things under control and are open to new adventures and ideas.

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  6. Marry Ann,

    What a lovely post. I think Acceptance is a good word to go by.

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  7. What better time than the first of the year to
    do some planning.

    Good Luck and enjoy!

    M :)

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  8. You are the third person this week I have read that has written about setting goals. Our daughter, Thistle Cove Farm, and now you. I think I better pay attention and I have made a start. You have written about it so plainly here, Mary Ann, and about acceptance. Maybe that is one step that allows you to move forward in goals because we can't just give up when sorrows and troubles come. Thank you for this beautiful post and blessings in 2013.
    Dewena

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  9. Sounds like you have some great plans for the up-coming year, and a great attitude to go along with your plans :)

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  10. Lovely post and yes it is fun to plan for a new year! :)

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  11. I hope you enjoyed your afternoon...making plans for the new year! Won't it be fun to look back next year at this time, and see what all you've accomplished!

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  12. Thanks for stopping over for a visit - Happy New Year to you!

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  13. Oh yes, we have big plans for this year too! Looking forward to working on getting some of those goals accomplished.

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  14. Your post was a great way to start my week!
    Thank you!
    Stella Rose and mom

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