What is it about Christmas? … about the feelings this time of year brings about in us?
The stage is set in our intentions:
the twinkling of lights,
Christmas cookies baked by the dozen,
the wow gift for each of our loved ones,
a fresh-cut tree brimming with ornaments,
parties galore,
a crackling fire,
Christmas songs lulling us into a smile,
peppermint cocoa brimming our cup,
the sound of laughter,
the feeling of contentment,
[cue the softly falling snow].
How many of us experience the idyllic Christmas of our mind’s eye? Sure, we find it in our head, and we have meaningful intentions in our hearts, but there’s a gap in what actually transpires as we ready ourselves for the season.
What are you really looking for this Christmas? … and can it be filled by the things of the season?
Be encouraged to seek and to search. Feelings can be a challenge to deal with, yet spending some time with them can help to bring about a clarity that equips us with the courage and expectant hope to be more real in our own head and heart.
Hope Surrendered 