On the Eighth Day of Christmas

My true love gave to me Eight Maids-a-Milking. Eight Maids-a-Milking symbolize the Sermon on the Mound and the Beatitudes. The word Beatitude comes from the Latin Beatitudo, meaning blessedness. Each of the eight beatitudes imply a state of emotional well-being in a seemingly dark place. The Beatitudes are the key to achieving peace and contentment in a troubled world.

Blessed are the poor in spirit; for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.
Blessed are the meek; for they shall inherit the earth.
Blessed are they who mourn; for they shall be comforted
Blessed are they that hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they shall have their fill.
Blessed are the merciful; for they shall receive mercy.
Blessed are the pure of heart; for they shall see God.
Blessed are the peacemakers; for they shall be called the children of God
Blessed are they the suffer persecution for righteousness’ sake; for theirs in the Kingdom of God.

To be poor in spirit is to be humble. To mourn is to feel a deep sadness. Sadness for the violence, hatred, and injustices in the world. When we mourn, we open our hearts. Change can only come about with an open heart. To be meek is to have a gentle spirit, to feel compassion rather than seek revenge. To hunger and thirst for righteous is to possess a deep passion for all that is just. Justice has nothing to do with leveling the playing field or striking back when we feel we have been wronged. In a just world, there is no score to settle. Settling an unjust score is to stack injustice upon injustice. To show mercy is to show forgiveness. We cannot ask for forgiveness if we are unwilling to forgive. To forgive is to let go of angry, hurt and hatred. Removing pollutants from the heart gives way to a heart that is pure, open to love. Peacemakers work in harmony with the world around them. It is one thing to love those who are like us, it is another to accept those who are different from ourselves. And finally blessed are those who are persecuted. It is so much easier to avoid rocking the boat or go along with popular opinions, it is far more difficult to stand up and say enough. Cancel culture has run amuck. Mob rule is the norm. But the price could be our very souls. It’s a price I am not willing to pay. Are you?

Wow – went off on a rant. Sorry about that. We have been living in crazy, trying times and every now and again I just need to let go. Back on track – Eight Maids-a-Milking. Milk equals Hot Chocolate in my book. Hot Chocolate with an added kick of Rum. Yum!

Spiked Hot Chocolate
2 cups Heavy Cream
2 cups whole Milk
7 oz Dark Chocolate
2 Cinnamon Sticks
1 tablespoon Honey
1 tablespoon Brown Sugar
2 teaspoons Vanilla Extract
1/4 cup Dark Rum or more if desired

In a medium saucepan, heat the heavy cream and milk over medium-low heat. While the cream mixture warms, chop the chocolate into small pieces. Add chopped chocolate to the warm creamy mixture, whisking constantly. Still whisking, add the cinnamon sticks, honey and brown sugar.

Once the chocolate has completely melted, remove from the heat and add the vanilla and rum. Continue to whisk until a slight froth begins to form and everything is heated through.

When ready to serve, remove the cinnamon sticks. Ladle into mugs and enjoy.