Photo was taken on Saturday in Altamount, Millstreet, Co.Cork (Irl)

As we head towards the shortest day of the year, most gardens are in short supply of colour. But this flower called a ‘Perennial Wallflower’ was looking its best over the weekend.

Thought on Monday – December – 17/12/2012

‘People are like stained-glass windows. They sparkle and shine when the sun is out, but when the darkness sets in, their true beauty is revealed only if there is a light from within.’ ~ Elisabeth Kubler-Ross

There is nothing like the beauty of a stained glass window. The colour, beauty, energy, simplicity and the story behind each one pulls you into the present moment. It is no surprise that most stained glass windows are to be found in churches. They pull you into God’s gentle presence in the here and now. This is always a great starting point for prayer. Comparing ourselves to a stained glass window is also good. We too are full of colour, light, goodness and energy. We are part of a much bigger window where everyone’s light and colour plays a part. When darkness sets in we need a light from within to be the difference and make things happen. Sometimes we can’t find the light within. When we can’t find it all we have to do is simply ask others to help us find it. It is always close and within our reach. This is what Christmas is all about, finding that inner light, God’s light, holding it, treasuring it, sharing it and helping others find theirs. Christmas is celebrated together, celebrating all our light and colour especially the light within.