in the bleak midwinter (2.7)
For today’s meditation, take some time to quiet your heart, starting by taking three long, deep breaths. Settle into your chair, or couch, or wherever you’re sitting.
Then, listen to the music, read the lyrics of the carol, and look at the painting. What emotions rise up in you? What thoughts do you have? Do any words or phrases jump out at you?
Set a timer for 10 minutes, and then make something based on the carol- it can be a quick sketch, a poem, a written prayer or journal entry, a dance, a melody, anything that suits your fancy. This is a time for you to create and reflect. Stick with it- just start (even if you start by writing down ‘ I don’t know what to write’ ) and you might be surprised with what you find!
If you love what you’ve made, share it with someone. Or keep it a secret. It’s up to you!
in the bleak midwinter
In the bleak mid-winter
Frosty wind made moan,
Earth stood hard as iron,
Water like a stone;
Snow had fallen, snow on snow,
Snow on snow,
In the bleak mid-winter
Long ago.
Our God, Heaven cannot hold Him
Nor earth sustain;
Heaven and earth shall flee away
When He comes to reign:
In the bleak mid-winter
A stable-place sufficed
The Lord God Almighty,
Jesus Christ. Angels and archangels
May have gathered there,
Cherubim and seraphim
Thronged the air,
But only His mother
In her maiden bliss,
Worshipped the Beloved
With a kiss.
What can I give Him,
Poor as I am?
If I were a shepherd
I would bring a lamb,
If I were a wise man
I would do my part,
Yet what I can I give Him,
Give my heart.
artwork by Mariah Ziemer
We are halfway through already! Where does the time go? Thank you, dear ones, for your gentle kindness, your generous kind words, and your being here! You are a gift!
If you are enjoying it, again, it’s not too late to join in, so please feel free to share this with those you think may like it. It’s for everyone. Please contact me if you want to share your thoughts, your art, your ideas, have questions, etc. I’d love to hear from you! Thank you, friends.
Week three, tomorrow!
-alyssa
