Tip #6: Light an Advent wreath

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When I was home with my family for Thanksgiving, I went to Bronner's in Frankenmuth, Mich., the world's largest Christmas store, with my sister, my younger brother and my mom. Among a basket full of glittering ornaments, cookie cutters and more, I bought my Advent wreath – and, believe me, I had a lot of help from the peanut gallery. After much deliberation, I opted for a simple wreath, with candle holders subtly built it. The evergreens are tipped in sparkling gold. I brought the wreath home and put the candles in, three purple and one pink, along with corresponding ribbons.

Finding the meaning beyond the tradition

Yesterday, to the background of "Emmanuel" by Michael W. Smith, I said a blessing and lit one purple candle – Advent had finally begun. It was a little bittersweet doing it alone, but it gave me time to reflect on the meaning behind the Advent wreath. The purple stands for prayer, penance and sacrifice – something we often forget amid the coming joy of Christmas. Advent is about change, about transforming ourselves for the coming of Christ. Joy is marked on Gaudete Sunday, at the halfway point of Advent, symbolized by the pink candle. The evergreen has many meanings, including being the color of hope and the symbol of eternal life with Christ. And, of course, the light signifies Christ.

My family has always celebrated Advent with the Advent wreath – with my siblings and I vying for the chance to light and blow out the candles at dinnertime. This year, I am going to add the Christ candle. After decorating a white candle, it can be placed in the middle of the Advent wreath, either on its own or covered in a blue cloth (symbolizing Mary). Then, it is lit on Christmas Eve to represent the birth of Christ, and it is used to celebrate his coming throughout the Christmas season.

Light your own Advent wreath

The Advent wreath is a simple, beautiful way to daily remember to pray and prepare for the coming of Christ. To learn more about the symbolism and how to make your own Advent wreath, go to osv.com. For more tips, check out the "30 ways to make Advent, Christmas stress-free."