Signs

A latte featuring latte art in a black coffee cup surrounded by Christmas lights.           Photo by Jake Buonemani on Unsplash

But the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid; for see—I am bringing you good news of great joy for all the people: to you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, who is the Messiah, the Lord. This will be a sign for you: you will find a child wrapped in bands of cloth and lying in a manger.”  Luke 2:10-12

Signs often find us when we least expect them, where we aren’t looking, and in forms that are surprising. This Advent I’m learning some things about courageous waiting: that it is not a passive endeavor, but one that requires active engagement, constant attentiveness, and genuine openness. And, of course, don’t miss the signs along the way.

On mornings I travel my long commute into the City by bus, I always sit on the right-hand side next to a window, watching and waiting for a very special sighting some 20 minutes in: the 209-acre Mill Creek Marsh with wetlands making up a protected area offering home to diverse aquatic life and migratory birds. I watch in particular for the beautiful and graceful egrets and deer. For me, there’s just something necessary for my Soul that I at least try to connect whenever possible with Creation before I start my stressful run around the concrete jungle of New York City. I don’t always see what I’m looking for, but I am open and hopeful, and every morning I tell myself that if I can catch even a glimpse of wildlife—even one single little red-winged blackbird or duck—then “It’s going to be a great day.”

One morning last week, during an especially hectic day amidst pre-Christmas craziness and extreme work stress, I sat by that window with my head down in my notes, eating up bus time with final preparations for a big presentation. I finally looked up, eyes fatigued already at that early hour, and realized: I’d missed the Marsh. I’d missed my sign reminding me I am not alone today, that beauty still exists, that there isa connection to Divine life all around me, and that “It’s going to be a great day.”  I was heartbroken.

The day progressed, the presentation went well, then more to accomplish, more places to get to, still more to do, and the day’s schedule took hold and ran me through the jungle.

Much later, on my walk home from the bus, I opted for some caffeine to get me through the next part of the day and then the next long phase into the night. Counting out my last singles, I ordered what I had cash for and felt bad that there was no extra for a tip, since the new barista at my local coffee shop was so kind. I think it was the first moment that day I really noticed someone, even for a moment. I sauntered sleepily over to the counter as she handed me my latte with a big smile. The woman behind her chimed in: “You’ve got to see it – she’s the best latte artist!” She directed me to take the lid off, and there in my cup was the most beautiful rosetta design with a heart. A hidden sign and just for me. Seeing a smile light up my exhausted face, she reassured me, “It’s going to be a great day.”

Signs are everywhere, pointing us to what’s most important, to what opens our hearts, to what inspires creativity; they remind us we are not lost, we are right where we ought to be. The signs that come to us are for us only, perhaps only we will know them.  I believe that waiting is to recognize the signs meant for us and being courageous is living the meaning they bring.

Shared by Karla Hendrick