Making Room in our Hearts and our Homes
Advent is my favorite part of the holiday season. Making room in my heart and my home for the coming of Christ fills me with such warmth. It also allows me to reflect deeply, give generously and organize efficiently for Christmas, Epiphany, and the New Year.
Although I enjoy seeing decorations that go up closer to Thanksgiving (thank you all my festive friends!), it is the beauty we don't see that I dive into first. Clearing out the freezer, the cabinets and the linen closet, I reflect upon how blessed I am. Thinking of all the family and friends we get to see over the holidays fills me with both appreciation and anticipation. I get excited about making room for a happy, beautiful holiday.
Making room in our homes can be active prayer (whatever we each deem prayer, connection, seeking to be) that expands our hearts, simplifies our lives, and makes it much easier to enjoy the holidays. As I sort each drawer or box or shelf, I ask myself questions that are both literal and figurative:
What have I not used this year?
What can I give to someone in need?
What is no longer serving my highest good?
What is in the way when I am reaching for something else?
What can I share with someone who would delight in having it?
What do I need to release in order to make room for new thoughts, new items, new experiences?
Whether it is towels and blankets for the animal shelter, bed linens for the birthing center, coats for the mission, staples for the refugee center, decor for the rehomed interior designer service, clothing for school children, or any other items you wish to gift, there are many things we can share while we wait, prepare for, and celebrate eternal love and light.
May your home be filled with hope, peace, joy, and love.
Pinky Jackson is a decluttering and organizing expert based in Louisville, Kentucky. She specializes in helping busy professionals, families, and retirees decrease stress and clutter. For a complimentary consultation, go to pinkyjackson.com or call her at 502.523.3671.
photo credt: Kelly@unsplash
