Years ago, I happened upon a Christmas letter written in 1513 by Fra Giovanni  to a friend. The words in his note have echoed within me ever since. I offer them to you as a reminder that you Take Peace when you remember your connection to others and all life. You Take Heaven when you let go of past regrets and release worry about future outcomes; when you live in the present moment. You Take Joy when you awaken to the magic and miracles that are in every moment of every day. You can choose to take heaven, to take peace, to take joy in your life.  As we embrace the softness of this holiday season – as we turn once again toward the light – remember you are powerful beyond measure.

I salute you.
There is nothing I can give you
which you have not,
but there is much that while I cannot give,
you can take.

No heaven can come to us
unless our hearts find rest in it today.
Take Heaven.

No peace lies in the future
which is not hidden in this present instant.
Take Peace.

The gloom of the world is but a shadow.
Behind it, yet within our reach is joy.
Take Joy.