A Melancholy Christmas

It was a melancholy Christmas…

As Christmas drew near, a mix of emotions filled my heart.

Christmas is normally my favourite holiday

as it is a time to gather with loved ones

to share a meal, to laugh and sing, to pray,

and celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ.

However, celebrating was difficult

for many of us this year,

knowing of the hardships and heartache

that people in Gaza, Israel, Ukraine,

and elsewhere in the world are going through.

With all the tragedy and devastation in the world,

I feel it is more important than ever

for all of us who can

to become beacons of light, love, gratitude, kindness, and hope,

for all those who need it most.

Despite the negativity, each day is a chance to start anew,

to notice and appreciate the little things …

such as the smell of fresh coffee in the morning,

the wonderful wet wake up kisses of our beloved pets,

a warm hug and smile from our spouse or children,

the sun rising over the mountain

signaling the roosters in the neighbourhood it’s the start of a new day,

the dusting of snow that fell overnight

covering the yard with a multitude of sparkling snowflakes,

phone conversations with family and friends

about an upcoming event we are excited to attend,

your favourite song playing on the radio

that lifts your moods as your drive to work,

stopping to get groceries and finding that parking spot

right in front of the store on a rainy day,

an unexpected bag of delicious shortbread cookies from a neighbour,

 a wonderfully satisfying bowl of vegetable barley soup (just like mom’s)

after a long day of work,

a warm cozy blanket and a good book or movie,

a cup of earl grey tea with honey and cream,

a comfy bed, warm blanket and fluffy pillow.

It’s little things like these,

which we sometimes take for granted,

that so often fill our lives with meaning.

In such uncertain times,

it is easy to let fear of the unknown

to get the best of us

and paralyze us from moving forward

or seeing the beauty and joy of life.

Every day is a gift,

every day a reason

to be grateful for the moments

we have together.

Blessings for the new year – 2024!