That was so beautiful and heartsent. I tried living without God and it was not good.-came back to my Catholic faith after raising my kids. Realizing how much better our lives could have been with God at the center is painful, but so grateful I was given time to make amends. Have a merry, blessed Christmas
Sasha, That was a great Christmas piece. Thanks for bringing hope and perspective to many of us during this year. Spiritual dimensions are tough to encompass, but they matter. A Merry, Merry Christmas to you and yours.
Merry Christmas Sasha. Despite your concerns about putting out a dark Christmas message. I can’t tell you how inspiring this post is. It’s partially unspoken and exists in between the lines. Love everything you’ve done and extremely grateful for you. Wishing you peace and spiritual prosperity.
Merry Christmas! Keep seeking Him and you will find Him! While you mention the Grinch, I will mention Linus’ big scene from a Charlie Brown Christmas-
Charlie Brown: Isn't there anyone who knows what Christmas is all about?
Linus Van Pelt: Sure, Charlie Brown, I can tell you what Christmas is all about.
[moves toward center stage]
Linus Van Pelt: Lights, please.
[the lights dim, and a spotlight shines on Linus]
Linus Van Pelt: "And there were in the same country shepherds abiding in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night. And lo, the angel of the Lord came upon them, and the glory of the Lord shone round about them: and they were sore afraid. And the angel said unto them, 'Fear not:"
[Linus drops his security blanket on purpose]
Linus Van Pelt: "for behold, I bring unto you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people. For unto you is born this day in the City of David a Savior, which is Christ the Lord. And this shall be a sign unto you; Ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger.' And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host, praising God, and saying, 'Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men.'"
[Luke 2:8-14 KJV]
Linus Van Pelt: [silent pause as Linus picks up his blanket and walks back towards Charlie Brown] That's what Christmas is all about, Charlie Brown.
Here's a telling story: when the completed cartoon was shown to CBS executives in New York, one of them looked at Charles Schultz after Linus' reading from Luke and said,
In fairness to him, he was a completely secularized man who, when he learned why that passage is so important, backtracked and was apologetic. He's also the guy who fought for the Vince Guaraldi score when the other CBS executives wanted something else.
Is anyone surprised about that? And years later, on a FOX special on "the best Christmas movie/TV scenes", in the late 90s or early aughts, they CUT THE BIBLE REFERENCES OUT of the Linus scene, after the "Fear not". Anyway, Charles Schultz's answer to this CBS executive was "Well, if I'm not going to put it out there, who will?" (paraphrased). The co-executive producer revealed this in a "Making of 'A Charlie Brown Christmas'".
Thanks for quoting from that lovely Christmas show, Ree.
And Sasha, the cross can be just the start of a wonderful and richer life, with even more purpose. To think that the Creator of our world was willing to give up His divinity to be born a baby and embrace all that it is to be human, so He could bear our burdens (and save us).
May you have a wonderful and blessed Christmas with your mother, sisters and daughter.
I don't post much but I always read you here, on FB, and X. I try to "like" when I can. You are appreciated. We're all drawn to your words for different reasons. You give me hope. May you be blessed during this season. I'm glad you wear a cross, even if you haven't fully embraced its meaning yet. It's okay.
Geez, it doesn't matter. Most of my friends in high school were Jews. My family would always relay Merry Christmas on their cards, my friends families were never shy about happy Hanakkah. Let it be. The intrusion of 'happy holidays' was as woke as it could be. The distinction is relevant. Be proud of who you are and what religion you follow. Happy Holidays was invented so no one would be offended, so no one came across as superior. Nonsense.
Sasha, I came back to Jesus when I was in my early 50's. When I look back on my life when I didn't know Jesus, I realize that he was watching out for me before I ever knew him. He's watching over you now and when you're ready for Him, He'll be there. God bless you and Merry CHRISTmas......
Thanks for your kind Christmas message, Sasha darling. It gave me a warm fuzzy Back at ya.
Wear that cross. It does have the power to guide and protect you... doesn't have to make sense, 'cause it's not for you to understand.. (apologies to Willie Nelson)
Here's to the bestest Merry Christmas to you and your family.
What it represents has the power, not the cross itself. Christ and the Apostle Paul said the chasing after signs and having physical idols was silly and wrong. I like having a dove representing the holy spirit (God's spirit) rather than a cross because He was risen from the grave and that cross wasn't his end.
Thank you, Sheryl. I have been having the same thought go through my mind. Good for you. Such a remarkably wise and inspiring human being. Sasha's pretty remarkable, isn't she? And, Merry Christmas to you too!!
I'd suggest watching "The Chosen" series as it brought me closer to God after a death in the family and a move for my disable adult son meant I wasn't around him anymore to check on his all the time, so fear gripped me regarding his wellbeing. "God has not given us the spirit of fear but of power and love and a sound mind" Apostle Paul
They say some people wear their heart on their sleeve. You probably do, but you also wear it on your Substack. I admire your genuineness, your honestly and your brave leap into seeking truth and sharing your discoveries. I never tire of your writing. Merry Christmas Sasha.
As a medical scientist I have no choice but to believe in God. The saying “ the more you know about life in general the less you actually know”. Life did not spontaneously occur without design. The problem with most scientists is that they have bought into evolution and science can explain everything and thus have no faith and believe in nothing bigger than themselves. How tragic. Einstein knew this was false as do many prominent scientists but their are far to few us that do.
It's a mystery to me how anyone who is in the sciences doesn't believe in a Designer/a Creator. My son was arguing "okay, so if there's a Designer, that doesn't necessarily mean it's a personal thing....it could be clinical and who says there's any redeeming that needs to be done or that mankind wants it...and the last "Avengers" movie came out and I said 'Why do humans line up to see a movie about a savior redeeming humans? Could it be that it's ingrained in us to desire that, since the original fall of humankind?"
What a beautiful post, Sasha. Thank you! That cross used to be the worst way a person could be put to death. It was inverted into a sign of hope, restoration and yes, protection by our Lord and Savior. Many blessings to you and your family this Advent season.
That was so beautiful and heartsent. I tried living without God and it was not good.-came back to my Catholic faith after raising my kids. Realizing how much better our lives could have been with God at the center is painful, but so grateful I was given time to make amends. Have a merry, blessed Christmas
Same here Barbara. Same as you. I have regrets but am glad I was given the time.....
Sasha have a blessed Christmas ! Love your writings and podcasts ! I wish more could see the light. 🙏🏻🙏🏻
Sasha, That was a great Christmas piece. Thanks for bringing hope and perspective to many of us during this year. Spiritual dimensions are tough to encompass, but they matter. A Merry, Merry Christmas to you and yours.
Merry Christmas Sasha. Despite your concerns about putting out a dark Christmas message. I can’t tell you how inspiring this post is. It’s partially unspoken and exists in between the lines. Love everything you’ve done and extremely grateful for you. Wishing you peace and spiritual prosperity.
Merry Christmas! Keep seeking Him and you will find Him! While you mention the Grinch, I will mention Linus’ big scene from a Charlie Brown Christmas-
Charlie Brown: Isn't there anyone who knows what Christmas is all about?
Linus Van Pelt: Sure, Charlie Brown, I can tell you what Christmas is all about.
[moves toward center stage]
Linus Van Pelt: Lights, please.
[the lights dim, and a spotlight shines on Linus]
Linus Van Pelt: "And there were in the same country shepherds abiding in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night. And lo, the angel of the Lord came upon them, and the glory of the Lord shone round about them: and they were sore afraid. And the angel said unto them, 'Fear not:"
[Linus drops his security blanket on purpose]
Linus Van Pelt: "for behold, I bring unto you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people. For unto you is born this day in the City of David a Savior, which is Christ the Lord. And this shall be a sign unto you; Ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger.' And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host, praising God, and saying, 'Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men.'"
[Luke 2:8-14 KJV]
Linus Van Pelt: [silent pause as Linus picks up his blanket and walks back towards Charlie Brown] That's what Christmas is all about, Charlie Brown.
Here's a telling story: when the completed cartoon was shown to CBS executives in New York, one of them looked at Charles Schultz after Linus' reading from Luke and said,
"Does that have to be in it?"
Very telling indeed.
Doubtless a highly-secularized drek exec. Like a petulant child who's he must wash his face and hands: "Mom...do I *HAVE* to?"
Praise the Lord that we do INDEED!
In fairness to him, he was a completely secularized man who, when he learned why that passage is so important, backtracked and was apologetic. He's also the guy who fought for the Vince Guaraldi score when the other CBS executives wanted something else.
Many, many thanks for the informative, marvelous sequitur! A blessed Christmas to you and yours!
And to you, as well!
Is anyone surprised about that? And years later, on a FOX special on "the best Christmas movie/TV scenes", in the late 90s or early aughts, they CUT THE BIBLE REFERENCES OUT of the Linus scene, after the "Fear not". Anyway, Charles Schultz's answer to this CBS executive was "Well, if I'm not going to put it out there, who will?" (paraphrased). The co-executive producer revealed this in a "Making of 'A Charlie Brown Christmas'".
1965 was the high tide of modernism, but it's like someone who has never read Shakespeare, Dickens, or Hawthorne telling me he's literate.
Thanks for quoting from that lovely Christmas show, Ree.
And Sasha, the cross can be just the start of a wonderful and richer life, with even more purpose. To think that the Creator of our world was willing to give up His divinity to be born a baby and embrace all that it is to be human, so He could bear our burdens (and save us).
May you have a wonderful and blessed Christmas with your mother, sisters and daughter.
My father would always read that passage from Luke at the Christmas table. This year I'll be doing it.
One of my favorites of all time
I don't post much but I always read you here, on FB, and X. I try to "like" when I can. You are appreciated. We're all drawn to your words for different reasons. You give me hope. May you be blessed during this season. I'm glad you wear a cross, even if you haven't fully embraced its meaning yet. It's okay.
Geez, it doesn't matter. Most of my friends in high school were Jews. My family would always relay Merry Christmas on their cards, my friends families were never shy about happy Hanakkah. Let it be. The intrusion of 'happy holidays' was as woke as it could be. The distinction is relevant. Be proud of who you are and what religion you follow. Happy Holidays was invented so no one would be offended, so no one came across as superior. Nonsense.
Never forgetting that holidays = holy days. Boy, but that reality make the wholly-godless global elitists' heads explode!
Yes, may Sasha inspire us ALL to press into the CROSS in these days. Now more than ever.
Sasha, I came back to Jesus when I was in my early 50's. When I look back on my life when I didn't know Jesus, I realize that he was watching out for me before I ever knew him. He's watching over you now and when you're ready for Him, He'll be there. God bless you and Merry CHRISTmas......
So many prodicals (including me) among Sasha's fans. No coincidence.
Thank you for sharing this, Paul. It encourages me for my loved ones. ❤️🙏❤️
Your comments about not being required to go it alone brought a tear to my eye this Christmas season. Merry Christmas!
Thanks for your kind Christmas message, Sasha darling. It gave me a warm fuzzy Back at ya.
Wear that cross. It does have the power to guide and protect you... doesn't have to make sense, 'cause it's not for you to understand.. (apologies to Willie Nelson)
Here's to the bestest Merry Christmas to you and your family.
What it represents has the power, not the cross itself. Christ and the Apostle Paul said the chasing after signs and having physical idols was silly and wrong. I like having a dove representing the holy spirit (God's spirit) rather than a cross because He was risen from the grave and that cross wasn't his end.
Well, yeah... it's still not for me to understand.
I highly recommend "Mere Christianity" by C. S. Lewis. You won't be disappointed - and read about his history. He did not start out a Christian.
Thank you, Sheryl. I have been having the same thought go through my mind. Good for you. Such a remarkably wise and inspiring human being. Sasha's pretty remarkable, isn't she? And, Merry Christmas to you too!!
I recommended that book to Sasha (it played a big part in my conversion) and even offered to send a copy to her. Waiting for an answer...
I'd suggest watching "The Chosen" series as it brought me closer to God after a death in the family and a move for my disable adult son meant I wasn't around him anymore to check on his all the time, so fear gripped me regarding his wellbeing. "God has not given us the spirit of fear but of power and love and a sound mind" Apostle Paul
YYyesssss Sasha. "Mere Christianity".
Merry Christmas to you and your extended family.
God matters and it’s a wonderful thing to have you in our universe. 🙏❤️💯
They say some people wear their heart on their sleeve. You probably do, but you also wear it on your Substack. I admire your genuineness, your honestly and your brave leap into seeking truth and sharing your discoveries. I never tire of your writing. Merry Christmas Sasha.
You feel protected by the cross because you are, Sasha. We're all on the same journey with you.
Merry Christmas - John
As a medical scientist I have no choice but to believe in God. The saying “ the more you know about life in general the less you actually know”. Life did not spontaneously occur without design. The problem with most scientists is that they have bought into evolution and science can explain everything and thus have no faith and believe in nothing bigger than themselves. How tragic. Einstein knew this was false as do many prominent scientists but their are far to few us that do.
Thank you.
It's a mystery to me how anyone who is in the sciences doesn't believe in a Designer/a Creator. My son was arguing "okay, so if there's a Designer, that doesn't necessarily mean it's a personal thing....it could be clinical and who says there's any redeeming that needs to be done or that mankind wants it...and the last "Avengers" movie came out and I said 'Why do humans line up to see a movie about a savior redeeming humans? Could it be that it's ingrained in us to desire that, since the original fall of humankind?"
Merry Christmas to you too, Sasha, and best wishes for a peaceful and restorative time with your daughter and your family.
What a beautiful post, Sasha. Thank you! That cross used to be the worst way a person could be put to death. It was inverted into a sign of hope, restoration and yes, protection by our Lord and Savior. Many blessings to you and your family this Advent season.
Merry, Merry, Merry Christmas to you dear Sasha. Wear that cross, girl. It's everything good. Everything.