We’re on day eight now! It’s a happy day for me because I am Métis. That will make no sense to people who don’t know that the infinity symbol, which looks like an elongated number eight on its side, is the symbol of the Métis people. 

In the song, Twelve Days of Christmas, the eighth gift is the eight maids a-milking. If we look a little deeper at the meaning behind the gift, we are reminded of the story in which Christ blessed eight specific kinds of people: the poor in spirit, those who mourn, the meek, those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, the merciful, the pure of heart, the peacemakers and those who are persecuted. 

While Christians celebrate the birth of Christ and honor his humility, we also recognize ourselves in each other at this time of year. Those long magical nights allow us time to reflect and recognize our connection to one another, and to all of nature. 

The magic of the winter night sky is truly holy, a time for filling our hearts with hope and imagination for better things ahead. 

You can preview or own my version of O’Holy Night or by visiting Sandra’s Store on my website.

(This is the eighth of a daily 12-part blog series offering positive and inclusive messages throughout the festive season, along with songs from Sandra's newly released Christmas album, Aurora 12. Catch up on previous posts by visiting Sandra's blog.)