On this eve of miracles and light, the magic of youth calls to us – hearts bubbling in anticipation of morning dew, imagination casting dreams of fiery race cars, sweet faced dolls and unexpected treasures overflowing embroidered stockings hung over the blazing fireplace. Once upon a time we believed in half eaten cookies and gnawed carrots. We believed a red suited, white bearded elf bounding down the chimney and spilling his bag of tricks. We believed that in spite of all the practicalities of day to day life, miracles happen…especially tonight.

One day when my son was 9 we were talking about the concept of turning back time when he said to me “I wouldn’t want to turn back time. I’m exactly where I want to be.” Today, he’s a few years older. Responsibilities have taken hold, and he knows the logic of things. But the magic in his heart remains just as present and effervescent as ever. His youthful spirit reminds me to believe in fairy tales, pixie dust and the mysterious antics of red suited elves.

In Brené Brown’s book The Gifts of Imperfection she offers “Faith is a place of mystery, where we find the courage to believe in what we cannot see and the strength to let go of our fear of uncertainty.”

Faith is letting go of predispositions, expectations, practicality and habits of disbelief.