The Holiday season is a wonderful time of year. A time to spend with family and friends, eating, exchanging gifts, catching up on everyone’s lives. Rejoicing in the love and friendships we have no matter your faith.
It’s also a hard time of year for many of us. Probably all of us. The stress of it all, the loneliness, thoughts of loved ones that have gone.
Until I had my son fifteen years ago, this time of year was just a time to try and muddle through. Painful memories make it difficult for many of us to celebrate this time of year. Having a child changed that for me. My whole perspective on life changed in 2018 as well and that has altered my view of this time of year.
I choose to remember those we’ve lost in a different way now. My brother whose eternal smile, sense of humor and contagious laugh was such a joy to behold. Just being around him would raise anyone’s spirit. His love of cooking and food made any holiday feast incredible. My little sister whose love of Christmas was evident all over her house and her yard, LOL. No one could decorate for Christmas like my lil’ sis. No one. She made it her goal to make sure that everyone that came to her house, be it a friend, family or stranger left with at least a little bit of Christmas spirit. She lit up a room not just with lights but with her sometimes overwhelming joy. It’s fitting as Joi was her middle name.
We all have “things” we try to overcome. To quote a very special person in my life, “I try not to give it power over me.”
Let’s remember the best things about those we’ve lost and share the holidays rejoicing with those loved ones and friends that are here. Be here for them and they will be here for you.
Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays to you all.
Rae McDaniel 