I sat in church last Sunday….and the beauty of my church finally hit me.
It has taken over a year to say “my church.” Since I have lived here for twenty two years we are at our third church. We made wonderful relationships at each church that we still have many of those to this day. Leaving churches is hard….and it always will be. Listening to God speak to you and give clear direction is much harder than you can imagine….especially since we were so attached to so many people.
Sometimes God wants us to do uncomfortable things….and so that is what we have done.
I am determined this year to do the candlelight service on Christmas Eve….and I know I will be exhausted, but I feel this year more than ever…I need to embrace the true beautiful meaning of Christmas.
I am so grateful for my family and my friends and our community…..and even though life is hard right now….there is beauty in all of it.
Why do we have to go through the hard things? Why do we have to fix the people who once fixed us…who taught us how to walk and eat and use a potty….and now we see them struggle…and watch them die….and still know how much they loved us. Telling my Dad he could go to as the hardest thing….and knowing he didn’t want to….and knowing he waited until I left the room to go….even in death he was protecting me.
Dad loves Christmas….and cordial cherries and blue Christmas lights…..
Blue lights are hung…..don’t think I can look at the cordial cherries without crying…maybe someday.
For now….love on those around you. Make the moments special….embrace the simple pleasures. Slow down…and let this season envelope you in its true meaning. This earth is not our home….and I am so glad….
So this year….decorate….or not….bake….or don’t ….go nuts with gifts or not….
But whatever it is you decide….know that sometimes different is ok as well.
The Reluctant Red Nose 