A friend and I were recently discussing how we feel “in the midst of it all.” Global events, political rhetoric, holiday frenzy and personal heartache are not exactly a recipe for inner peace.

However, it is rare that looking to the outside and analyzing the human condition will provide the answer. At least we must recognize that we are capable of stepping back and observing ourselves in the midst of it all. You might call it a cosmic perspective. You might ask, as many have, who is the presence observing?

When you think about it deeply, we are quite divinely and beautifully made. We are part of the universe and yet we also have the universe within. The fire rainbow can be seen without, but can also be realized within. It is that place of our true nature which is peaceful and yet full of the colorful fire of the heart. It is the spirit that rises up and shines when the chips are down, the winds of change are billowing through and we don’t really know what the future holds for us. It is the beauty of the soul, radiating through all the temporary effluvia. It is the quiet yet resolute inner voice. It is who we really are.

As I write Christmas cards, wrap packages and participate in the joys of the season, I am also reminded to be present with who I really am, listening for the glory of the rainbow within. I am reminded to look for that rainbow in each and every one I meet. I remember a question posed to a saint or sage asking, “What is real?” The answer was, “Only that which does not change is real.” In the midst of it all, I am meditating on the unchanging nature of who we really are and celebrating that reality.