The Soulful Series Newsletter
December 2022
Meditations
Hey Friend! I’m keeping this message short and sweet, as I know inboxes are literally exploding this time of year. I pray that you will take a moment to stop and just breathe in this message of kindness, always remembering this season is about so much more than the gifts under our trees; it’s really about remembering the most indulgent and surprising kindness ever extended to humankind.
“For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish, but have eternal life.”
John 3:16
The Unspeakable Gift
by Carol Laing
A Gift I was given a long time ago
Has value and worth far beyond what I know!
If you’d try to place value on treasures down here,
Collect them and count them—it could not compare
To the singular worth of the gift I received,
And all this because I had grace to believe.
The Gift came to me without cost to myself,
But hasn’t been one just to lie on a shelf
Or to use now and then on a thought or a whim–
Every day, everywhere, the Present’s within
As Teacher, and Comforter, Counsellor and Friend,
It is true that this Gift comes with great dividends!
The Gift shows me loving’s the right thing to do
When self-seeking thoughts full of evil come, too.
If envy or pride want to raise up their head,
The Gift gives the strength to show virtue instead.
And if, from the future I’m tempted to hide,
I can go forth in peace, knowing Help’s at my side.
This Gift keeps on giving, through thick and through thin,
It comes with the armor to fight and to win!
It comes with a purpose of lifting and freeing
And I have embraced it with all of my being!
Because of this Gift, well, I never am bored;
Perhaps you have guessed: it is Jesus, my Lord.
God bless you at Christmas; may the Light of the world shine on you and those you love as you share this blessed, holy season.
Michelle
p.s. Want to go deeper on Kindness? Consider subscribing to A Soulful Calling, a special edition of the Art + Soul Newsletter
Musings
I’m currently musing over the stunning work of Rebecca Jack. Her use of color blows me away. I love highlighting other makers and their creative gifts so, go give her some love.
Makings
New work for December is now available at Charleston Artist Collective. This month’s theme is “Merry + Bright,” and a portion of all proceeds will benefit the Historic Charleston Foundation.
I’m wrapping up my creative year as I finish final commissions and prepare to close the studio doors. If you want to place an order, be sure to do so by December 15th in the Holiday Shop.
*I’ll offer studio pickup for any last-minute shoppers.
As usual, I’ll be using the final weeks of December to dream and plan for what’s to come in 2023.
On The Horizon
I hope something here put a smile on your face, inspired you, or warmed your heart! If it did, I would love to hear your response.