So the Month of Thanks is over, and we’re entering the last month of the year, which is interesting, because in my faith, we are entering the new year of our church calendar. Advent has begun, which, for those of you who don’t know, is not only the start of a new liturgical calendar, but is a preparatory season leading up to Christmas.
Advent is noticeable by the violet vestments worn by the priests, the evergreen wreaths found in the church and in many homes, and the three purple and one rose candle on the wreaths. The evergreen branches are significant because they represent immortality, strength, healing, and victory over persecution. The wreath itself is a circle, a ring; a shape with no beginning and no end, and therefore represents the eternity of God, the immortality of the soul, and the everlasting life found in Christ. The lighting of the candles represent bringing light, or Christ, into the world.
Each candle has a different designation. This first week, we light a purple candle—the Prophecy Candle. It is in remembrance of the prophets, particularly Isaiah, who foretold the birth of Christ. This candle represents hope.
As a devout Catholic, I embrace these tenets of my faith.
As a romance writer, what does all this mean for me?
Actually, this season is a beautiful time for romance.
- Sights: twinkling lights, roaring fires
- Sounds: soft music, crackling logs
- Smells: evergreen boughs, simmering spiced cider
- Tastes: mulled wine, hot cocoa
- Feelings: fur-lined gloves, hand-me-down quilts
Romance is all about hope.
- Hope that someone will understand what you want, what you need.
- Hope that your trust will be rewarded.
- Hope that your love will be earned. And returned.
Advent is about anticipation. Week one is about hope.
And romance is about both.
How are you counting down the weeks until Christmas? I’d love to hear about your plans and preparations.