Simple Advent Snippets

Choose the old story of light rippling in the dark

Hi, I’m Debbie, a spiritual director, writer, host and mother based in Glasgow. I offer stories, ponderings and gentle invitations to share a moment with your soul.

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Hello friends,

Firstly a quick correction, in my recent post about the Iona Retreat I had the dates wrong. We are going from 1st-5th of May 2025, thanks to the attentive among you who noticed and let me know! Read on to hear how I’m marking Advent and attempting to approach the festive season this year.

a simple Advent platter

Every year I think I’ll be more organised for Advent. But perhaps I need to accept that winging-it-with-what-we have is my way. Last year I shared invitations and ideas about Marking Advent here. We may be on the 5th of December already, but have a look there if you’re looking for inspiration.

I am feeling drawn to simple and slow this year. I am following Kate Bowler’s ‘The Weary World Rejoices’ Advent Devotional online, and I’m loving her accompanying playlist. I value Advent’s invitation to consider the current darkness alongside the promised light. Our decorations are more minimalist than usual, mostly to reduce temptation to the puppy. The simplicity is soothing, even if it was sad to put the box of quirky homemade decorations back into the attic.

Our tiny tree and massive star

A couple of weeks ago I had a mini Calm Christmas retreat at home. My friend, and fellow Spiritual Director, Jen Goodyer put this delightful letterbox retreat together and it’s still available as a digital version.

Calm Christmas

I squealed when my box arrived in the post, and was so pleased to have time that night to sit with Jen’s reflective questions. I journaled through my own seasonal priorities, acknowledged my inner posture and then played with the poems and collage materials that Jen sent. I was so touched to have collage materials cut and prepared especially for me. This time helped me to name my need for my own quiet within the buzz.

And as I ‘gathered my noticings’ I ended up with a poem, which I’ll finish with.

Rooted

Know the dark and the light
           the quiet peace and the twinkling rumpus
           winter's solitude solace and family's constant draw.

Listen. Savour the joy in the noise
             balance this with stillness
Listen. Not to the screens, but to your shoulders
             honour your longings for simple rest.

Gather. Yes,
             and go prepared to share 
             the layer beneath logistics
             (and your favourite festive bake)

Choose the old story
              of light rippling in the dark
Glimpse Divine withness, with us.

Dwell. Witness.
             Be here
             with the dark and with the light.

May you find space and stillness in your soul in the midst of the dark and the light.

With love,

Debbie

P.S. What invitations are you noticing in this season?