Sitting at the desk in my little office to write the last column of the year, I am mindful to take a moment and think about these past few months and how the events of the days have affected me. I am reminded of how different things are this year; not only for me, but for many around me.
My waist is smaller, but so is my 401(k). Two of my children and their families have left the state to chase dreams of better money, better weather and a new life where they are truly on their own. I miss my grandchildren terribly, but it is as it should be. They are a family.
Two of my friends are moving away as well, and another is critically ill. I silently cry with his wife who has been my friend for twenty years at the unfairness of his illness, an injustice at such a young age. Some have lost jobs and another friend has recently suffered the death of a beloved cat, a companion for 15 years. With such depressing situations surrounding us, it leads to one of the questions posed to the universe for eons, murmured in sincere prayer when asking for help. How can I enjoy Christmas when there are those who are so sad?
We are not alone in our trials and the loss of loved ones, the difficulties of illness and the future economic uncertainty. Our heart breaks for those who have little to nothing and only ask for our compassion and good will.
My waist is smaller, but so is my 401(k). Two of my children and their families have left the state to chase dreams of better money, better weather and a new life where they are truly on their own. I miss my grandchildren terribly, but it is as it should be. They are a family.
Two of my friends are moving away as well, and another is critically ill. I silently cry with his wife who has been my friend for twenty years at the unfairness of his illness, an injustice at such a young age. Some have lost jobs and another friend has recently suffered the death of a beloved cat, a companion for 15 years. With such depressing situations surrounding us, it leads to one of the questions posed to the universe for eons, murmured in sincere prayer when asking for help. How can I enjoy Christmas when there are those who are so sad?
We are not alone in our trials and the loss of loved ones, the difficulties of illness and the future economic uncertainty. Our heart breaks for those who have little to nothing and only ask for our compassion and good will.
Give it freely, as it is because of this very reason we are reminded to acknowledge the birth of the Savior of the World every year. To remember that we are forgiven , and our happiness in not discovered wrapped in tissue paper, but found between the folds of the swaddling clothes cradling the babe in the manger. It is the smile of a baby, the love deep within the hearts of children who have yet to discover the harsh realities of the world and rely solely on the innocence of their being when they meet Santa Claus for the first time. Is that really him? they ask out of the corner of their eye, not really wanting to know the true answer. It is because it IS Christmas that we should be happy and grateful, resisting the sadness, if only for a day at a time. To want what we receive, not receive what we want. 
Whatever the traditions of your holiday embrace them with love from your heart, thinking back to a happier time for it will help you get through the rough spots of life. Memories are balm to soften the rough spots, like rough elbows and itchy sweaters. Draw closer those who are near you, whether you feel they deserve it or not. Forgive others as you have been forgiven.
There will always be heartbreak, illness, disappointment and regret, even at Christmas. But with hearts beating strong, know that you are not alone and accept the outstretched hand of your neighbor. You are loved no matter what day it is.
May whatever burdens your heart this season be lifted if only for a moment, to acknowledge the birth of hope and the warmth of the spirit from an infant born in a barn. Merry Christmas.
Whatever the traditions of your holiday embrace them with love from your heart, thinking back to a happier time for it will help you get through the rough spots of life. Memories are balm to soften the rough spots, like rough elbows and itchy sweaters. Draw closer those who are near you, whether you feel they deserve it or not. Forgive others as you have been forgiven.
There will always be heartbreak, illness, disappointment and regret, even at Christmas. But with hearts beating strong, know that you are not alone and accept the outstretched hand of your neighbor. You are loved no matter what day it is.
May whatever burdens your heart this season be lifted if only for a moment, to acknowledge the birth of hope and the warmth of the spirit from an infant born in a barn. Merry Christmas.
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