The Ideal Gift
/MARISOL B.
This has been one of those years that invites us to deep reflection on what we may consider ideal for ourselves and our life.
PHOTOGRAPHY: KASSONDRA PHOTOGRAPHY
At the stroke of midnight on the first day of 2020, we likely pictured the perfect set of circumstances, making this year “the one.” The one where I finally meet my future husband, plan my ideal wedding, travel to a faraway destination, or any other ideal gift matching the deepest desire of our heart.
“Everything is gift,” Saint Therese of Lisieux wrote in her autobiography, and this year was not the exception.
I got married in October 2007 and every anniversary thereafter, I reflect on the many experiences of our marriage - so beautiful and profound, and challenging in ways we never quite imagined.
Much like, 2020 – our marriage has taught us to receive the many gifts that are presented to us as ideal, despite their initial appearance.
We are well aware that anything that is allowed into existence has the potential for goodness, truth and beauty – therefore, we have embraced each set of circumstances and resolved to make something truly fruitful out of it all.
An impossible request
Several years ago, I heard of the Walk of the Incarnation, a Novena for Impossible Requests-- a 9-month long prayer which begins on the Feast of the Annunciation and ends on Christmas Day.
I prayed it fervently each night; entrusting very special requests that would help our marriage continue to grow and thrive.
God is still working on the timing for those very specific requests, and this year proved to be one of great hope.
At the beginning of the pandemic (namely on the Feast of the Annunciation), my husband and I fully stopped to evaluate our marriage and the ways in which we might have stopped being a mutual gift – encumbered by daily distractions. In the middle of added uncertainty, we pondered what could be the most generous call for us, during this season of life.
Throughout this period, we have grown closer and renewed our conviction for one another, as we remember the God-given mission each of us has received.
I will say; however, that what has made the most impact in our marriage throughout the years, is the decision for a constant prayer life and true intimacy with Christ; both as a couple and as individuals.
Walking with Mary
It is when I am at my best as a woman, that my marriage thrives. My whole household flourishes, and the fruits get to become abundant enough to share with others around us. This is why, walking alongside Mary, fully aware of Jesus’ presence – has been the most profound reflection to be had during this time.
For nine months after the Annunciation, Mary got to ponder and experience Christ’s presence within her, as the tabernacle. She allowed her body to become a perfect little dwelling for Him, who would become the Temple; the one to be destroyed and restored within three days.
Walking alongside Our Blessed Mother, during this time of pandemic; has prepared my soul for the birth of Our Lord. It has reminded me that in the measure that I become the “ideal woman” all the gifts bestowed upon us in our life and marriage, also become ideal.
I am learning to dream big and bold; to envision the great possibilities for our family and to cooperate in their co-creation by remembering my dignity and identity in God, and the unique ability and mission given to me from birth. I am learning to take the practical steps to turn those dreams into goals and concrete action. I am learning to better cooperate with the Divine, by becoming a better earthen vessel which carries the treasure of abundant life within.
I invite you to dream big, and to receive wholeheartedly the greatest gift of all, the one of God’s presence in our midst; regardless of circumstances.
About the Author: Marisol has a great love for art and humanities. You may find her designing and styling, or gaining inspiration from books, art, friends and family, or a random conversation with a homeless human in the streets. She is passionate about the art of living in the present moment, building a life of purpose and of finding beauty in every circumstance. Her additional writing can be found at The Maritus Project and Beauty Found.