The world behealdan comes from the Old English meaning to "give regard to, hold in view---to keep hold of, to belong to."
As one of the pictures will attest, I was in my share of Christmas plays; I was an angel in most of them. Our script was the familiar Scripture verse, "...for behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy..." (Luke 2:10) I mused, 'behold, now that's a weird word, the angels must want to get their attention.' Probably, true, because any time there was this grand moment or announcement it is preceded with the admonition to "behold."
I'm a firm believer in the idea we are or become what we behold, what we pay attention to, what we are willing to regard and take the time to hold and grasp as meaningful. I still cherish the moment when I take from the box my childhood tree ornaments, or soak in the many colored lights...the string like a musical composition of varied notes which, behold, create waves of reflection and memories.
Even in observing my new kitty, Lucy, I think her whole young life is one of beholding, being totally in the moment occupying and holding in view something interesting and with captivating concentration...able to tend and possess minutes of attention and time to something or someone who she is grasping with all of her senses to view and absorb...beholding.
What we take in, take time for, and regard as special provide potentially beautiful magical experiences. Clothe yourself in the brilliant colors of the season, the reds, yellows, greens, and allow your attention to bring forth the good and joyous tidings of wonder, the light of understanding, and the spirit of a generous heart. Behold! This day is enchantingly new...
**Peace and joy to you and yours...