Vulnerability is the Key to Awakening the Deep Magic of Christmastime

Posted on 18-12-2018 , by: Dr. Tim. Hogan , in , 9 Comments

There is a deep magic hidden behind the lights and music of Christmas. Awaken It and the Season will come alive. How? The secret is simple. It just takes a little courage. Here it is:

Vulnerability – it’s the key to awakening the deep magic of Christmas.

Here’s why: Christmas celebrates fragile light emerging in the midst of deep darkness. Celebrated during the darkest season and shortest days of the year, Christmas transformed pagan winter solstice celebrations. Fittingly central to the Christian rescue of this pagan holiday is the iconic fragile baby, defenseless to harsh weather and wild animals and surrounded by poor people. Total vulnerability.

Divine power? More like a dramatic display of vulnerable love.


Here’s how we can break open the deep magic of Christmas:

1) Let people know how they have blessed you. Thanking people requires the vulnerability of admitting that you didn’t get where you are on your own. You need people, and Christmas is a great time to remind them that you know it. Try this: Pick five people you have worked with in the past and write a three-sentence email. For example: “When I was an intern you encouraged me to say less and listen more in meetings. I still do that and it makes me a much more effective leader. Thank you for coaching me to do that.” For those closer to you, consider writing a short letter expressing gratitude for what they mean and have done.

2) Share something vulnerable at a holiday party. For example, in addition to telling people about the accomplishments this past year, share some things that feel vulnerable or unfinished. This is easier than you think. Consider starting sentences with “One thing I’m not sure about…”, “One thing I’ve been struggling with this year is…”, “One thing I feel sort of helpless about…”, or “One place I could use some prayer is…”

3) Love a few vulnerable people. Who is grieving this year? Who has an illness? Who is not able to leave their home, either because of illness or no longer driving? (Go ahead. Name one or two right now!) Visit them or invite them to a holiday gathering, or simply spend some time on the phone with them.

The days are dark and cold. The winter solstice draws near. Why not commit right now to two small ways to embrace vulnerability and awaken the deep magic of the Christmas season? You can do this! Merry Christmas!

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9 Comments found

  1. “Thanking people requires the vulnerability of admitting that you didn’t get where you are on your own.” Thank you for this important reminder, Tim. As always, you are spot on! Thank you for the meaningful work you do to coach us in showing up as better versions of ourselves, in all of our relationships.

    • You are welcome, Maria! And thank you for all you do to bring goodness to the community! Merry Christmas!

  2. Thanks, Dr. Hogan! This message comes at a perfect time – I’m finding myself in a challenging, contentious situation, and I think that writing a short gratitude letter will help diffuse stuff. I always get inspired and encouraged after reading your messages. Please keep ’em coming 🙂 Merry Christmas! Sincerely, Olena

    • Thank you, Olena! So glad this brings positivity! Hang in there! Merry Christmas!

  3. Hi Tim,
    Thank you for your insight. I am reminded of the lyrics from Sweet Little Jesus Boy, “we didn’t know who you were.” With your suggestion, I will commit to finding the deep magic of Christmas by looking for, and recognizing Jesus in everyone. Merry Christmas!

    • Thank you, Amy! All the best to you and the family! Merry Christmas!

  4. Thanks, for your encouragement to make this Christmas more than a struggle to get through it. AS Doug said on Sunday I am working on making it a want to rather than have to, whether it is my focus on Jesus or on my loved ones.

  5. Hi Dr. Hogan,
    This is a timeless post, and is helping me to prepare for a great last full week before Christmas.
    We receive God, who was vulnerable for us, and we can give Him to others and be vulnerable ourselves.
    Magical.

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