Sherri, many churches don't celebrate/acknowledge/follow the liturgical calendar, so you shouldn't feel bad for not knowing about Epiphany. Lent and Advent are the main seasons people are aware of, along with the important days that end those seasons, but the rest have been lost in many ways. Isn't it nice, though, when all of those dots connect and you get a glimpse of the bigger picture? 

olive &amp; hope, being open and letting go are such huge, important things to get a grasp on, aren't they? I tend to be a very slow learner when it comes to those areas—I struggle with them, then I learn the sort of things you've described, then before I know it I'm struggling with them again. I love how you talk about both experiences, though, and all the good that comes from continuing to practice and work at it.

Andrea, this is so true: "Now that I got the message, I need constant vigilance to practice getting out of my own way." I hate to think of all of the times I have gotten in the way of good that was trying to reach me. Also, listening to and trusting that inner voice is key. Thanks for sharing your perspective on this.

Mel, I know just how you feel about God's plan for each of us often being difficult to discern. It can be so frustrating! What I've gradually learned, though, is that it's usually about timing. There's more we need to learn before we're ready for the plan, or other certain life circumstances need to come together and fall into place before that plan can begin. I'm so glad you're finding the creative life that's right for you!

Cynthia, that's such a wonderful realization. It makes me so sad and frustrated that so many women in many churches feel isolated from God's love, gifts and promises. God doesn't want us on the sidelines!

Jen N., I love that something as basic as a bumper sticker can make the lightbulb of understanding turn on! 

Molly, that sounds like a *very* frustrating situation. Perspective is such an important thing when you're feeling disappointment and anger. I've been thinking about that a lot these past couple of days, since the earthquake in Haiti. My struggles are so small in comparison. 

Helen, ah, I've learned that beautiful truth in my life, too. Thanks for sharing it in such a beautiful way.

modergirlskitchen, I love this: "I reach a place of clarity where I realize that all those things dragging me down are really only dragging me down because I have decided that’s what they’re doing." We are such complicated creatures, aren't we? Thank goodness for all the little wake up calls along the way.

Laura, the word "awakening" is a great one to use. Suddenly everything becomes clear. Maybe the truth is there, waiting, and the divine is like the alarm clock that helps us open our eyes.