The darkness of a silent night lends itself to contemplation.

We can go deep into ourselves and reflect upon the supreme wonder of life itself and of our own life in particular.
From the beginning of time, how many events had to occur,
how many coincidences had to happen,
for a totally unique human being to arrive on this planet!

As bewildering, even incomprehensible, as our world may seem at times,
the central fact remains: We are alive.
True awareness of that fact can carry us through difficult times.
And it can help us stay serene and at peace with ourselves
and with our fellow human beings, each of whom is yet another instance
of such an astounding concatenation of circumstances.

However you celebrate this season of wonder and light,
be kind to yourself and to those around you;
regard yourself and them with compassion and understanding.

May your heart be filled with joy and your home be filled with laughter and love. And may the new year that's waiting in the wings
bring you the fulfillment of your dreams and the blessing of abiding peace.

Warmly,

Rodelinde