The most wonderful time of the year
Well, it's that time of year. Some call it the most wonderful time of the year. The time where expectations are high and we put them on ourselves. We've gotten past Thanksgiving and Black Friday madness. The Christmas trees and decorations are sparkling in windows as we now go to work in the dark and come home in the dark.Don't read me wrong here. I love the Christmas season and I am looking forward to spending time with family and friends and celebrating the birth of Jesus. I stand strong in saying yes, it IS CHRISTmas! I'm sorry that some are trying to change that.
Every year, we Christ followers endure the efforts of those who want to change this most wonderful time of year. Store associates who wish me Happy Holidays have their greeting returned with a hearty Merry Christmas and blessed New Year and I really mean that. I want them to be blessed. It's not about being a smarty-pants or getting some victory. I really, really want the blessings of what is at the root of this season to be heaped on others. It'll change a heart and lift a life by just showing the love of God for each other. Here's a random thought, let's not do this just at Christmas.
The inspiration for my tree has been torn from Country Sampler magazine. I've nested my primitive tree in an antique crock, and I've begun creating some paper ornaments to complete the vision I have for this vintage, black and white beauty I'm going to create for me and the hubby to enjoy this year.
The nativity will come out, get dusted off, and will be displayed to highlight the reason for the season in my home.
It's good to have reminders. It's wise to have objects around that trigger us and remind us of why we have this wonderful season of Christmas to begin with.
So, as I begin this season, a new job and hopefully a house hunt, I'm going to try to be kind to others as the crazy crowds become chaotic in the stores. I'm going to set my heart on the light of the meaning of the season, as the skies become gray and how I know I'll miss the sunshine, and I'm going to choose to be in wonder over this most wonderful time of the year.
Merry Christmas and blessed New Year to you.