All Saints' Day. I stopped by Walmart on my way home from Mass this evening and was greeted by the familiar strains of "Jingle Bell Rock"; then came "I'll Be Home For Christmas." Halloween has been mostly stripped from the shelves. I am resistant to the rush. I want to savor Thanksgiving and not be yanked through November and December into a New Year that I haven't had time to think about yet. Being connected to a faith community helps because we are focused on what's important about this time of year. We are called to service more often and in different ways than the rest of the year.

Stopping the rush is one of the best things about retreating to a convent or monastery for a weekend at any time of  year. It is ordered and peaceful, and counsel is available if needed. No TV, but lots of books; a refreshing outside prayer walk, and the hushed silence of the sanctuary. There is no other time when I leave behind chaos, and fall exhausted into the arms of peace. That is what I seek at Christmas.