Whose Advent?
by Charles Moore

Though Advent (literally "arrival") has been observed for centuries as a time to contemplate Christ's birth, most people today acknowledge it only with a blank look. For the vast majority of us, December flies by in a flurry of activities, and what is called "the holiday season" turns out to be the most stressful time of the year.
It is also a time of contrasting emotions. We are eager, yet frazzled;sentimental, yet indifferent. One minute we glow at the thought of getting together with our family and friends; the next we feel utterly lonely. Our hope is mingled with dread, our anticipation with despair. We sense the deeper meanings of the season but grasp at them in vain; and in the end, all the bustle leaves us frustrated and drained. Advent begins this Sunday(today).
What does it mean to you?
**************************************************************************************************

FYI: In the liturgical year, Advent is the four week period ending on December 25, Christmas Day. It was a time for penance and reflection. Advent actually opens the liturgical year, appropriately as a time of waiting for the coming of the savior. The prayers during this time reference the waiting of the Israelites with citations from the prophets such as Isaiah (Is 30:30) "People of Sion, behold the Lord shall come to save the nations."