The season of Advent means
there is something on the horizon
the likes of which we have
never seen before.
—from Night Visions:
Searching the Shadows of Advent and Christmas
_____________________
People sometimes ask me if I have a favorite among my books. Officially, I don’t. Every book has been its own journey that has invited something different of me. But just between you and me, I will say that Night Visions holds a particular place in my heart.
It was my second book, and the first one to include my artwork (very early Richardson pieces!). Along with the artwork, I created reflections, poetry, and prayers as a way to explore the more shadowed terrain that Advent and Christmas can hold. I know that for so many, the holidays can be a nearly overwhelming swirl of hurry, pressure, and expectations about being cheerful and bright. Advent and Christmas offer so much more than this, with their invitation to be present to the Love that meets us so specifically in who we are, both seen and unseen. I created Night Visions because I wanted to say that in the darkness and in the daylight, God is here, and here, and here. In all of it.
It always means so much to me when someone tells me that the book helped them—that in a time that held pain, grief, fear, or simply too much that was pressing on them, they could open this book, take a breath, and be present to the hope, joy, and love that move through the season.
To each one who has traveled with Night Visions, thank you. For everyone as we move through these days and toward the sacred season ahead, so many blessings.
_____________________
To find Night Visions: Searching the Shadows of Advent and Christmas,
visit the Advent page at my website.
