HOLD ON FOR DEAR LIFE
It’s Advent and I am taking a Caregiving course. I am told that I am part of the thousands that make up “the sandwich generation”, caring for aging parents and children simultaneously, but I haven’t turned 40 yet. I guess when you wake up and your mom no longer remembers who you are, caregiving isn’t much of a choice. It has become a dark cloud looming over me and I hold on for dear life, as they say. Good thing I love a good sandwich.
When I think about the people in Zechariah’s prophesy in today’s Gospel, I am blown away by their memory. He recalls the ways the Lord has been faithful to the people for generations and each of the promises made. He also remembers and proclaims that God is God of “tender compassion” that “guides [their] feet into the way of peace.” He remembers the essence and activity of God. He remembers their relationship. As I recall all the good memories with my beloved Mami, I am inspired by Zechariah to hold on to them stronger than I ever have. Hold on to them for dear life. And to share and proclaim them on behalf of both us, as heartbroken as I am. God has been so, so good to me throughout my life. Too good. Suddenly, these memories become tiny candles lit in a dark room.
Remembering helps me “savor the graces,” as St. Ignatius teaches, and my eyes swell up with tears. God truly has been that good, I know she will continue to be good now. Maybe Zechariah knew that remembering is a good thing? That it is good for us. Maybe that is how Jesus, the light of the world, is born in our hearts– through the act of our memories making the relationship come alive and carrying us. Through doubt, to-do lists, hardships, transitions, joys, Alzheimer’s, and all. Maybe that is how we let a little more light in.
I invite you to listen to this song and reflect on God’s goodness in your own life. How can you let the light in this Christmas?
Ana Lopez