That's right. I have decided that I am not celebrating Christmas this year. Sure, Santa will stop by for the kids and there will be many presents opened the next few days. Sure, I will praise my Savior for what He has done in my life.
But I'm not celebrating the holiday known as Christmas. I'm not biting into commercial or religious end of that croissant. No. This year I am not celebrating like that.
This year I am celebrating in those feelings that embody what the holiday season should be.
I will watch my children open their gifts. I will swell with joy over the smiles on their faces, and the fact that I will be present to witness it. I will revel in the blessing that my children are here to enjoy another holiday season. I will give praise that these moments happen when I know there are families that will not experience the holidays the same way.
This year I will celebrate health and happiness. I will praise the healer who has blessed me with great doctors, caring nurses, and second chance at life. I will be filled with joy by all that brings a smirk and smile to my lips. Even in times where the corners of my mouth want to draw down.
I will celebrate wondrous and inexplicable love. My wife, by my side by what we have both labeled the worst year of our lives. The love that burns in her eyes and he touch. The love that fills my heart and veins, and runs for no one but her.
The love of my family. A family united behind us as we have fought some terrible battles. The love from them that surrounds us with a fortress of prayer and faith in the strength of healing.
The love of total strangers who found it in their beautiful hearts to constantly support us with love, prayers, hope, inspiration, money, materials, hugs, crying sessions, and ears to vent to.
No, the common thought of Christmas is not what I will be celebrating. It's for the filler of that pie that I will say prayers of thanks.
2012 comes to an end with one big lesson to leave behind. Don't see good times with your eyes. See them with your heart. Do not escape that which can only bring good things to your life. Never cease to be amazed by anything around you. Never forget any moment that makes your life better, your will stronger, your heart stronger, and your skies brighter.
A toast: May you be filled by love, happiness, health, and the finer things that should never be forgotten by your heart. Cheers!
From my family to yours,
Happy holidays to each and every one of you!
Saturday, December 22, 2012
I'm Not Celebrating Christmas
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I think, of everything of yours I have read to date, this is my absolute favourite. Enjoy your holidays, John, and may your heart swell with every single moment of joy your way.
ReplyDeleteI needed to read this
ReplyDeleteThank you.
Enjoy your holiday.