Friday Tea: Grief and beauty

and maybe a little bit of hope

I’m welcoming grief this Advent season. Not in a Scroogey way, just with an awareness that we’re carrying sorrow amidst the curated gift guides and festive decorations. (I’m also a sucker for the gift guides).

My friend Chris Marchand published the second half of his podcast conversation with Helen Kuening and it’s just what I needed this week.

Helen was a whistleblower in the Anglican Church in North America and she (unsurprisingly) lost her church community when she came forward. Helen reflects on the loss and what it means for her as a mom to step away from church.

Continuing with the Advent theme, I’ve had this album on repeat for the last few Decembers.

Sam describes the inspiration for St. Fleming of Advent as “a satisfactory holding place for grief,” which I love.

I’m heading to a masquerade ball tonight.

At this stage in my life, it’s rare to have an occasion to rent a fancy dress. Bless the friends who go all out for their 40th birthday parties! Will I be drinking caffeine at 6 pm to stay awake for said ball? Obviously.