The holidays are looming. Perhaps that is not the best choice of words. When things like finances, relationships, health, and work are going well, holidays enhance the good feelings. If disasters big or small send us into that negative spiral of grief, illness, broken promises or disappointment, the holidays can be hell. One of my most vivid Christmas memories was attending a Christmas evening church service just a few months after the death of my young husband. The grief was so overwhelming I could see no hope in the Christmas story. The words “joy to the world” stuck in my throat. The lights from the candles were blurred by my tears and I fled down the aisle and into the cold black night. Only a few months before I had walked down that aisle on the arm of my father as a happy bride. Reliving that Christmas brings memories that still linger in one frozen corner of my heart.
I have many other truly joyful Christmas memories of times when all was childhood wonder and life was simple and good. I have celebrated nearly 80 Christmases. Some I barely remember. Others I would rather forget. The memories of the joyful ones far outnumber the sad ones.
Christmas is about family. Whether you are on a warm sandy beach or cuddled in a blanket eating popcorn. Maybe you were struggling to put a bike together or figure out how to wrap a toboggan at 2 am. You were doing it for your children or your children’s children and for yourself making memories to clasp to your heart in future years when loved ones are no longer there to spend Christmas with you.
Take this holiday time to lighten your heart with memories of the joyful times. Remember those Christmas mornings when you found that special something under the tree. Remember Dad thanking you for the house slippers that didn’t fit and Grandma in the rocking chair crooning to her great granddaughter. Remember stuffing stockings and ugly sweaters. Mom working with her volunteers to create your Christmas feast and holding hands as Dad said the blessing. Remember singing carols and spilled mash potatoes and snow falling as the day ended with hugs all around. Remember the glitter, the giggles and the gratitude for the day.
Merry Christmas or Happy Holiday celebrations whatever your faith.
May you find hope and pray for peace.
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