The Christmas season is one of my favourite times of the year. As if by magic, we are transformed, and our hearts and souls opened up to shine fully. It is a time when children believe in magic, and the world conspires, if only for a short time, to nurture that childlike quality for young and old alike.
It is the time of year we shed our selfishness and think of others. Individuals, families and communities raise money for those less fortunate as we are driven to ensure that every child and family are able to enjoy Christmas day. Strangers are no longer afraid of one another, but instead, reach out, join forces, and help one another. Friends and families celebrate their faith together, and share in the joy, and hope, and magic.
It is the time of year when families become nostalgic, and long to be together. Children come home, (often with their laundry) siblings reunite, and we remember what family means.
Christmas is a time when old memories are treasured and new ones created. Tradition takes on a new importance and we honor the past and those who helped create it. In my family it would not feel like Christmas if we did not decorate homemade gingerbread, watch White Christmas, and wait for the pajama elf on Christmas eve. At times traditions and memories can be bitter sweet when our hearts ache for those who helped create the traditions but are no longer with us.
Unfortunately I just had to attend a celebration of life for the mother of a dear friend of mine. Ruth had lived a wonderful life and passed away at the age of ninety four. She was dearly loved by family and friends, one of those rare individuals who exuded amazing grace and kindness that touched all those who had the good fortune to spend time with her. At the celebration, the minister reminded the family to focus on their treasured memories of past Christmas's with Ruth, memories filled with joy and light and love. Ruth's strength is evident in her children and grandchildren so I am confident they will help each other to do just that.
Christmas is a time of miracles. It was born from a miracle and continues to give birth to new miracles every year, for it is a time when our hearts and souls come alive and the best of the human spirit is revealed and shared. My hope is that some day, that same spirit will dominant all year round!
Merry Christmas everyone, may you experience the full joy of Christmas in your heart and soul!
love and light,
Penny
the miracle
resides
in each one of us,
the
transformative,
infinite,
powerful,
light of love...
No comments:
Post a Comment