If you know me, then you know I am not particularly a morning person. My husband has said that it's almost painful to watch me wake up....that he can literally see me struggling against opening my eyes and clinging desperately to sleep just a bit longer. I laughed when he told me that, but it's probably true.
But, this morning I woke up in a good mood. While I was getting ready, I found myself continually humming Christmas songs and smiling at myself in the mirror. It was almost scary!
Our Broker and his family hosted a wonderful brunch at his home for all of us this morning. We gathered in their beautiful home and prayed together, sang a Christmas carol around the long table and enjoyed the most fabulous food! As we hugged one another before leaving, my heart swelled with emotion. This is one of the most enjoyable parts of Christmas - the time spent with friends, pausing to be with one another, fully focused on the joy to be found in the friendship. Each of us was given a beautiful LED ornament to take home for our tree - it constantly changes color - just so cute!!!
My Christmas spirit did not diminish as I ran errands and battled the crowds at the grocery store. Even though people around me seemed rushed, frazzled, even cranky, I found the words "Merry Christmas" rolling off my lips frequently throughout the day. And I realized my simply saying it with a smile brought a smile to the face of the one I greeted.
Today, I am thankful that I feel so full of the spirit of the season. The stress is simply gone. There are still some things to be done around here, but the pressure (which I put on myself) is gone. I truly enjoyed the day and felt that I was blessed just to be in the moment!
I hope you are feeling what I am feeling! Blessed, content, so very fortunate and loved. This search for inner peace by focusing on gratitude and the Giver of all good gifts has helped me to stay on track and experience a day like today. I pray I remember the lessons I have been learning on this journey!
Jane,
ReplyDeleteYou are an inspiration. Your page is beautiful and really makes me stop and remember all the great people I have in my life. An how fortunate I am.
Haven't played poker in awhile and I miss you and Ed. Sam and I get to play on occasion but it is rare.
I pray you and your family all have a Very Merry Christmas and a Very Happy New Year!
Melanie
Your ornament is lovely. I'm glad that you are looking forward to Christmas and have let the stress go. Enjoy.
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