The calendar tells us that the four weeks before Christmas has begun but our heart may be out of sync and we want to say Scrooge’s made up word.  You change the station when Andy sings what a “Wonderful Time of the Year” that this isn’t for you.

If you have children then it’s a cinch because their enthusiasm is so contagious that it’s hard to fake a Christmas smile with those tiny, wondrous eyes gazing at the lighted tree.

We been through this season year after year and the ending may have lost the peace and contentment promised by all those Advent scripture readings.

What better way to get on with it except to “act” like your excited and full of anticipation.  (“I have a minor in drama, I should be able to pull this off.”)  Preparing for “The Godfather,” Marlon Brando thought he looked too young so he put tissue paper in each cheek to broaden his face and make his voice sound hoarse.  History tells us that it worked.  He acted the part and in his old age he was tissue-less because the cheeks did their own thing.  His pretending worked well.

The Disney playgounds ingeniously build-in numerous layers of attractions for those who attend a second or third time.  The first visit you see the magic castle and all the glittering lights.  Your second visit you look past that castle and see something new that’s been planted there just for your second visit.  The Vatican has the same layout only without the scheming.   On your first visit to the Vatican who would ever look at the floor because your eyes are glued to the ceiling and surrounding lifelike figures.  On your second visit the floor may catch your attention as you see the measurements of other Catholic cathedrals around the world and how they pale in comparison to the size of the Vatican.

Advent has something for everyone in all times of life.  The trick, or faith’s beauty is getting you to look and find some part of you that’s been hidden away behind that fixed-rigid clock that ticks away in your head or those heavy bags that weigh down any life-giving energy.

“Act” like you love Advent once more and discover a nook or cranny of hope, peace and contentment that waits to be captured, honored and cherished.  If you “act” well, you may not win an Oscar but I bet there’s a nomination waiting for you during the season of waiting.