Astonishing how many “A” words are affiliated with this Advent season of anticipation before the arrival of the Christ child into the world. It’s all about cultivating a sense of awareness and attentiveness. “Do not be afraid,” the angel told Mary, the annunciation or ‘announcement’ scene appearing in amazing art throughout history. “All of life is a kind of Advent,” a dear friend said, an astounding thought that makes me grateful to be alive and awake. Alleluia, amen.

(The Annunciation by Sandro Botticelli, circa 1490, Uffizi Gallery, Florence.)

This post first appeared on the lovely blog Very Truly Julie. A huge thanks to my dear friend (and one of my favorite writers), Julie Degni Marr, for letting me share it with you here.