19 Comments
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C. Christopher Smith's avatar

Thanks Ashley! I’m glad I’m not the only one who wrestles with the religious-industrial complex that is deeply embedded in our experience of faith in the US.

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Ashley Hales's avatar

Thanks, Chris. It's hard when we keep believing that the marketing or the product is the thing. I'm all for some thoughtful hand-holds, but when all we have are those, it's depressing!

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Amy Fischer's avatar

My favorite Advent tradition as a homeschool mom is not homeschooling during advent. No lessons, no plans. Just the same few books that we read every year, the same music that we listen to every year, and Advent candles because open flames and kids are a no-brainer.

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Sakari's avatar

Beautiful! As a poet, I feel pressure to write a new poem every year about the wonder of Advent. So I appreciated the invitation to simply come to Christ

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AnnaEspi's avatar

Love meets us still, right where we are…I loved this so much.

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Lesley Sebek Miller's avatar

Love these words, Ashley. I’ve noticed the same trend with advent book publishing and I haven’t been able to name why it’s bothered me so much. And I say this as someone who owns a lot of advent books! Particularly when it comes to practicing advent with children, I’ve typically felt like I need to reinvent some of the wheel each year, and partially this is true as they grow because some of our simpler practices begin to feel baby-ish to them. But if I’m honest I’ve switched it up because of being marketed a new thing. This year, I’m not overthinking it! I did, however, finally invest in an advent candle holder instead of hand-making a wreath that’s always lopsided and makes me angry. Sounds like I’m in the no craft came too. 😉

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Ann Gemmel's avatar

Such.a.good.word! Many thanks!

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Cheryl Rutledge-Brennecke's avatar

This is spot on! I could sum it up - keep it simple.

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Lisa Nikkel's avatar

Yes. Yes.

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Sarah K. Butterfield's avatar

This was so relatable, you really tapped into the pull I feel each year to find The Thing that will unlock the peaceful/magical Christmas I'm after. Loved your words and your encouragement!

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Stephanie Loomis's avatar

Lovely, Ashley

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Amanda Pyle's avatar

Thank you for these words. I have been struggling with just such feelings as Advent approaches.

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Leah Everson's avatar

Thanks Ashley, my friend Matt sent this to me and I really appreciate the reminder that I don't have to perform my way through Advent. Or make it so spectacular/special every year.

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Kristin's avatar

I love this.

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Julie's avatar

Thank you for this tender reminder. Nice to meet you in this space!

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ESO's avatar

This is excellent. Thank you for reminding us of Who Love is (and gently correcting our mistakes).

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ESO's avatar

You helped me put words to my Advent thoughts, Ashley! Thank you.

https://open.substack.com/pub/agoodwilderness/p/my-unfinished-jesse-tree-and-what?utm_campaign=post&utm_medium=web

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yoon wonhyo's avatar

Let's go in order

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