By As I type it is five days before Christmas and the third night of Hanukkah. This time of year is my favorite. I love the music, decorations, cards, and being with those I love. Also, I love shopping for gifts for loved ones. Giving gifts is much more fulfilling for me than receiving. It may sound strange, but I’ve always valued time with those I love over having lots of stuff. That is even truer this year. All that said, making it to Christmas this year feels rougher and bumpier than ever. That is saying something given the last five holiday seasons for my blood family and I.
This super hard year makes me really want to soak in every moment and tradition of Christmas. Such a tough year makes me aware of how much I have to be grateful for…always. I want to slow down and remember what Christmas is about for myself and my fellow Christians.
“And there were shepherds living out in the fields nearby, keeping watch over their flocks at night. 9 An angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified. 10 But the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people. 11 Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is the Messiah, the Lord. 12 This will be a sign to you: You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger” Luke 2:8-12 (https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Luke%202&version=NIV).
Gratitude helps put 2022’s difficulties in perspective which is why gratitude is important especially this time of year. I thought I’d share what I’m grateful for with of you. In no order:
- The improved health of my immediate family and my own good health
- The ability to do this work, change the conversation around my condition, and help others deal with challenges of their own
- Everybody who loves me
- All of the technology that makes my life and work easier allowing me to thrive
- God’s love for me and the entire world
- Food on the table daily, a warm bed, clothes to wear, and a roof over my head
- I’m thankful for everyone of you, sincerely, thank you from the bottom of heart for reading my posts and being so kind to me. We’re creating the community I saw in my head when I started blogging and we’re just getting started I promise. 2023 has lots in store for me work wise that I’m excited to share to share with all of you as puzzle pieces become official. Stay tuned for lots of information in the weeks and months to come!
If you celebrate Christmas I hope you have a blessed, safe, holiday. If you are celebrating Hanukkah: I wish a great time celebrating the rest of the eight nights surrounded by those you love. I wish you joy and peace as well. If you don’t celebrate at all: I wish you good, restful days, in the coming days surrounded by those you love.
