"People used to grow up in small communities where folk wisdom was passed down. But we don't live there anymore. We can't go next door to your aunt and ask her for the answers."
~ Clarissa Pinkola Estes
I had four such aunts along with two storytelling grandmothers and a grandfather who told me about his childhood in "the old country."
Some of their stories that made me laugh. Some made me cry. Some gave me chills.
From their stories I learned things about strength and courage. I learned about
love, hope, and compassion. I saw their faith. At times I saw all the gifts in them and through their stories.
During this season of beautiful, miraculous stories...the star that led the wise men, the shepherds and angels, the Child born in a manger, the Maccabees, the one day supply of oil that lasted for eight days and eight nights...let's be the aunts, uncles, mothers, fathers, grandparents that share wisdom
stories with one another and especially with the children in our families.
Let's expand our notion of family too. Since most of us no longer live in small communities with our relatives right next door, let's open our hearts to whomever lives next door, across the street, across town.
Let's share what's in our hearts and watch for opportunities to share a story.
Consider writing one of your stories as a special gift for someone, perhaps for
the little ones in your family to read in the future.
And right here, right now, share your love and wisdom however you can.
'Tis the season,
Charlene
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