‘Tis the Season
For the first time in so many years, I’m winding down early. Obviously, it’s because our agency has decided to close for the holidays -one more reason why I feel so blessed to work there. My last day of work was the 20th – and since then, I’ve been taking the time to really lay low. Planning for Xmas eve dinner. Wrapping presents. Watching Netflix. Watching Netflix. Did I say, watching Netflix?
There’s a notion that the holidays bring happy times for all. Although we all know that’s not always the case. We live in a country that enjoys excess to the fullest. On social media, we eagerly watch the world revolve around those who seem to have everything. How easy it is to forget that the gifts we give and get don’t make the season any more meaningful. That having everything isn’t everything. Losses can’t be replaced, broken hearts stay broken. Despite being the happiest time of the year for most, this is also the time of year when losses and regrets come back to haunt us. Some of us are alone, some by choice and some by circumstance. Some of us are angry, unrelenting, bitter and disenchanted. Some of us are ailing, weak and financially depleted. I wanted to write this post for you. Because despite the happy thoughts and happy wishes, I know that you’re out there. I know that life hasn’t been fair to you.
There is, however, a message to this season that applies to us all. It is the message of HOPE and LOVE. When God sent his only son to live among us, it began with a bright star that lit the path for those who sought the way. This star, this light of the world, gave us the gift of hope. It led us to the boy in the manger, born in poverty, his parents turned away by all. This boy would one day become the man who died for our sins. But on that night, those who witnessed his birth knew that world had been saved.
And so, despite your suffering and pain this season, know that you are not alone. From now on, let every Christmas season remind you that the night always leads to day and that somewhere, somehow, you are truly, truly loved.
Wishing you all the true joys of this season. Let hope be your guide and your light.