It Never Snows in Seattle

I think of that statement every time it snows around here.

In 1971 when my Dad was being transferred from New Jersey to Washington State, we were eager to learn about what things were like out in the Pacific Northwest. We were told many things about what to expect, most of which turned out to be untrue.

Like many of the uninformed from the East Coast we found that it was not like the Hollywood "cowboy and indian" movies. It was not totally uncharted wilderness. It was not far removed from civilization. It was, however, very rainy.

One of the funniest things we were told was that it NEVER snowed in Seattle. This is because Seattle is too close to the Puget Sound which stays an even warm temperature.

So every time it snows in Seattle, I chuckle.

Only this past week with temps hovering in the teens, I've had to chuckle inside for fear my breath might freeze. OK, so I know it's not as cold as Minnesota where my brother is (sub ZERO!) but for us moderate weather PNW'ers it's darn cold - and snowy!

So for those of us not used to this white stuff - Yes, Virginia, it does snow in Seattle - so wrap up in your woolies and be careful out there!

PJ

Audacity of Hope

In 1981 I got caught up in the economic down turn of the time and as a result found myself unemployed for eleven months. This challenge was compounded by the fact that my wife and I were anticipating the birth of our first child. As a typical male, my identity was tied to my occupation and I struggled through a time of depression while I rediscovered who I was. This was a dark time for me, but I emerged from this challenge a stronger person, better prepared for other tough times that might lie ahead. What helped me get through this time was the love of family and the support of my faith community.

From my faith community I learned about the audacity of hope. Time and again people of faith look to Biblical examples of those struggling through tough times, but persisting in their hope because of a trust in God. To outsiders this hope seems counter-intuitive particularly when all evidence of change is to the contrary. Yet, I believe this is the essence of faith - hoping when all seems hopeless.

The audacity of hope is the message of Advent.

I continue to be amazed by the insight of the Church that celebrates the coming of the "Light of the World" at the darkest time of the year. This, at it's core, is a symbol of the audacity of hope. A hope that persists no matter how dark things may get. A hope that reminds us that the Light of the World has come to us, and abides with us, through even the toughest of times.

My mind flashes back to 1981 as the prophets of doom and gloom predict a prolonged season of challenge. My prayer is that we might trust instead in the One who continues to bring light into the darkness, and in faith live with the audacity of hope.

PJ