I didn’t think this was going to be a good Christmas. Life is going good, don’t get me wrong, so is “all well with my soul,” but even before the tragic events last week in Newtown, I’d become aware of some people losing their children this month. And more since then too. In fact, there were several days that just the words “Elf on the Shelf” got me teary eyed.
I did what I could. I prayed, I immersed in work, and Christmas planning, and I studied with my (awesome, spectacular, amazing) group what the awful events meant to a Christian and how they did (or did not) impact our faith, I did what I could to speak my mind about guns, mental illness, autism, school safety. I ordered amazing cupcakes, planned a party, bought gifts, celebrated with dear friends at Jonah the musical, and still, I thought my heart felt heavy.
But today? Not so much. Today is a good day.
Today I got to kiss my beloved babies good bye as they headed off for last day in 2012 school festivities.
Today I got to feel good about my work and writing, being confirmed by a dear friend yesterday.
Today the coffee in my cup tasted just right.
Today is a day the Lord made, and I’m rejoicing and being glad.
I don’t know what tomorrow will bring, but I’m blessed beyond measure with many things.
So the heck with being sad, because at THIS moment in time all is well and I’m beyond grateful for that.
I pray, wish and hope for you to have a moment – or many moments – of peace, serenity, and joy in this week. I invite you to embrace the good stuff life has thrown your way, no matter how small it is, and consider, for just a moment, that no matter who or what or where you are, God loves you.
He really, really does.
And when that message gets from your head to your heart, you can finally understand why this is the greatest season of all.
peace, love, & hope and a merry MERRY Christmas to you, my friend, dear reader.
Gratuitous kid photos:
Santa appears to be rethinking that gift, lol!
