Father Tim Kavanagh is a man of routine, as evidenced by the carefully laid out kitchen island in his study. His morning begins with prayer, checking his sugar, and polishing off a bowl of oatmeal with raw honey and multigrain toast. Yet, even this serene start to the day cannot shake off the feeling that he's been promised something extraordinary - a muse that refuses to materialize.
As he ponders over his Christmas list, it becomes clear that this year is different from all others. Gone are the days of making lists for everyone, replaced by a single A List for Father Tim himself. And what a list it is! At the top of his priorities is getting a gift certificate for nurses, who have spoken out about their changing preferences.
He recalls the Year of the Bathrobe, where he searched high and low for the perfect cotton robe with pockets, only to be met with disappointment from his wife, Cynthia. But this year, he's more determined than ever to make it right.
As he prepares for his visit to the hospital, Father Tim can't help but think about his journey as a priest. From being a bachelor to building a family of his own, he's come full circle. And through it all, poetry has been his constant companion - a reminder that even in the darkest of times, there is always beauty to be found.
The article also touches on Father Tim's relationships with his wife and children. Cynthia, his loving partner, has brought out a new side of him - one who is more confident and expressive. And as for his kids, Jack and Sadie, they've been a constant source of joy and inspiration in his life.
But perhaps the most remarkable thing about Father Tim's Christmas list is its focus on those who need it most - the nurses who dedicate their lives to caring for others. As he writes down each name on his list, we're reminded that even the smallest act of kindness can have a profound impact on someone's life.
As I read through this excerpt from "My Beloved" by Jan Karon, I'm struck by the author's masterful storytelling and insightful character development. Father Tim is more than just a priest - he's a complex and multifaceted individual who embodies the very spirit of Christmas itself.
As he ponders over his Christmas list, it becomes clear that this year is different from all others. Gone are the days of making lists for everyone, replaced by a single A List for Father Tim himself. And what a list it is! At the top of his priorities is getting a gift certificate for nurses, who have spoken out about their changing preferences.
He recalls the Year of the Bathrobe, where he searched high and low for the perfect cotton robe with pockets, only to be met with disappointment from his wife, Cynthia. But this year, he's more determined than ever to make it right.
As he prepares for his visit to the hospital, Father Tim can't help but think about his journey as a priest. From being a bachelor to building a family of his own, he's come full circle. And through it all, poetry has been his constant companion - a reminder that even in the darkest of times, there is always beauty to be found.
The article also touches on Father Tim's relationships with his wife and children. Cynthia, his loving partner, has brought out a new side of him - one who is more confident and expressive. And as for his kids, Jack and Sadie, they've been a constant source of joy and inspiration in his life.
But perhaps the most remarkable thing about Father Tim's Christmas list is its focus on those who need it most - the nurses who dedicate their lives to caring for others. As he writes down each name on his list, we're reminded that even the smallest act of kindness can have a profound impact on someone's life.
As I read through this excerpt from "My Beloved" by Jan Karon, I'm struck by the author's masterful storytelling and insightful character development. Father Tim is more than just a priest - he's a complex and multifaceted individual who embodies the very spirit of Christmas itself.
I think it's lovely that Father Tim has put himself on his own Christmas list this year, but what really gets me is how focused he is on helping nurses, those who work behind the scenes to care for others. 
It's a great reminder that kindness and generosity can come from the smallest acts, and it's so refreshing to see someone in a position of influence prioritize those who might be overlooked. 
you know what really gets me about this story? it's how father tim isn't even trying to hide his emotions, like when he's feeling down or unsure about something... he just writes it all down in that christmas list of his. no beating around the bush, no sugarcoating - just pure honesty and vulnerability 
I mean, come on, in 2025 we've got apps that let you donate to nurses and healthcare workers directly from your phone 
No need for gift certificates or lists. And what's with the emphasis on just one person? Can't he just use the "Donate" feature on his website like a normal guy? 
. And let's be real, who doesn't love a good gift certificate 
? But what I think is really beautiful is how he's using this as an opportunity to reflect on his own journey and the importance of poetry in his life 
. It's like, Christmas isn't just about material gifts, it's about finding meaning and connection with others and ourselves 