Epiphany

January 6th is Epiphany, the final day of the Christmas season. This was the day when the three Magi arrived in Bethlehem to see the baby Jesus, and recognized that he would grow up to be a great helper of people. 

Epiphany comes from the Greek epiphania, meaning manifestation, or moment of recognition. The Magi had an epiphany- a moment of recognition, when the truth became clear through something simple and striking.

Agenda for today:

1. Journal queries
2. Open to an epiphany
3. Bake a King's cake

1. Journal queries: 
An epiphany is an insight that might take years to ripen, like when I suddenly understand something that has been hovering just out of my grasp; it's a brilliant feeling of clarity, a gift from Spirit, a moment of transformation. 

At the same time, it’s no big deal- Light and grace are always in the world; what is sporadic is my ability to pay attention and be present.

What are the themes running through my life? 

What might be the message or vision that is ripening in me this season? 

What question do I want to shine greater light on? 

2. Open to an epiphany: 

An epiphany is a mysterious occurrence, but I can learn to be more open to the insights life offers me, and begin to experience epiphanies more often, from tiny to life-transforming. Today I will try this practice:

1. Formulate an open-ended question about my project, and write it on a piece of paper.
2. Settle in to meditation. Fill my mind with the question I wrote, and look at it from all angles. Take a walk and carry my question with me.
3. Move directly into working creatively with my question: Draw it or paint it- not aiming for something finished, but just a spark of inspiration.
4. Carry a listening attitude with me all day; dwell on my question. Hold an expectation that an epiphany or awakening will occur. Write down any ideas that come.

3. Bake a King's Cake:

2016 king.

In Mexico, Día de Reyes (Day of Kings) is the main celebration of Christmas, though Christmas Day is growing in popularity. Children get presents today from the three kings, and the family shares a special bread, called Rosca de Reyes (King's Cake), which looks like a large, delicious crown.

A tiny clay doll (or an almond or coin) is placed inside the cake to symbolize the coming of the baby Jesus. Each guest cuts a piece, and the person whose serving contains the doll is considered king or queen of the fiesta, and is obligated to host another party on or before February 2 (Candlemas).

I didn't make King's Cake this year, but here is the link to the recipe.