We are volcanoes when we women offer our dreams and experiences as our truth. All maps change and there are new mountains. ~ Ursula K. Le Guin

Today's Joy: Remembrance & Contemplation.
You may have heard, Reader, Elizabeth Edwards passed away this week. I've been thinking a great deal about the graceful and gracious way she lived her life despite several very public & painful chapters. She refused to be defined by the things that happened to her. Instead, she turned each setback, humiliation and tragedy into an instrument of strength with which she made a difference in the lives of others.

What an example she set! If Elizabeth Edwards could accomplish so much as an advocate, political figure & mother--all the while walking in faith and hope--what can I accomplish in my own life with the time I've been given? What could you accomplish, Reader? How would your life be different? How many lives could we change?

I am moved by the words Elizabeth posted on Facebook Monday--they turned out to be her last offered publicly:

"You all know that I have been sustained throughout my life by three saving graces -- my family, my friends, and a faith in the power of resilience and hope. These graces have carried me through difficult times and they have brought more joy to the good times than I ever could have imagined.

...There are certainly times when we aren't able to muster as much strength and patience as we would like. It's called being human. But I have found that in the simple act of living with hope, and in the daily effort to have a positive impact in the world, the days I do have are made all the more meaningful and precious. And for that I am grateful. It isn't possible to put into words the love and gratitude I feel to everyone who has and continues to support and inspire me every day. To you I simply say: you know. With love, Elizabeth."

An amazing and well-lived life. May we all be so blessed and strive to make the most of what God has given us.

Say you are well, or all is well with you,
And God shall hear your words and make them true.
~ Ella Wheeler Wilcox

Today's Joy: A Quiet Evening at Home.
As my appointment book fills up with holiday-related engagements over the coming weeks, a quiet evening at home suddenly seems precious. So, Reader, here I am on the couch, enjoying the glow of the Christmas tree with a pleasantly full tummy. You'd never know it's bitterly cold outside my window. Tucked in safe & warm, I'm blissfully content and feeling very blessed.

When I think of all the things others are facing on this December night that (God willing) I will never have to, I'm deeply grateful for the life I've been given and the people I share it with. Am looking forward to praying tonight for those in need, those in pain and those who aren't as fortunate this holiday season. May God ease their burdens and dwell in their hearts during this blessed season.

I have found that if you love life, life will love you back. ~ Arthur Rubinstein

Quotes courtesy of the Quote Garden.