We light a candle during each service as part of a four candle wreath during advent at my presbyterian church, but I had no idea that it's kind of a catholic custom.

"The four weeks prior to Christmas, observed in the Catholic liturgical year, is called the season of Advent (Latin: an approach, Second Coming, appearance, something's coming). On tables in Catholic homes around the world stands a wreath holding four candles, three violet (royalty) and one pink (love). Each week one more candle is lit. By Christmas all four candles are alight. Representing the light to come in the midst of increasing darkness, Advent reflects ancient times when, with no electric light on our planet, darkness was feared. The candles gave the people hope. Celebrating Advent, especially with an Advent wreath, revivifies ancient ceremonies and feasts of light."

More on the lighting of the four candle wreath; The Advent Wreath.

Just when I was writing yesterday about the importance of voter turnout, I see this article this morning on SFGate.com; GOP may decide S.F. mayor's race Close election could be decided by one voting bloc.

I think it's kind of interesting that some republicans will support a green party candidate, but if they do vote that way I think it's only because they don't like democrats.

Here's the referenced article by Rod Dreher on "crunchy granola conservatives", Birkenstocked Burkeans.

I did a google search, and apparently this essay caused a stir in all kinds of places. I even came across the term, "metropolitcan conservative".

But then again, maybe I'm "blue blazer liberal".

"Call them "Blue Blazer Liberals." Contrary to what you might expect from people with progressive politics, these dedicated Democrats are devoted to their children, care deeply about their careers and are determined to make a good living. BBLs go to church regularly and, afterwards, they might even eat a hamburger or two — real ones! Not tofu! — at a cookout….They are as comfortable in the worlds of business and high finance as any conservative Republican."

From Jonah Golderberg at the National Review Online.