A lovely card we received recently included a quote that has remained embedded in my heart this season: "Christmas isn't just about being merry. It's also about finding hope and comfort and a sense of peace..."
And yes, indeed, HOPE is what keeps us going when coping with loss, and heart-ache in the Christmas season. Or any season, for that matter.
My friend's words were full of truth, and I'd like to share a few of them here: "The only way to heal the pain is by marching through it with your heart open. It takes courage to feel it when all the ways we submerge feelings work so well...temporarily. And yet, what blossoms from that open heart is so much appreciation for what we have."
She is so right. Her words reminded me of the essence of all that keeps me going (not only now, but always): my unconditional faith in God and the love of the many people, family and friends, that are so very dear to my heart and to whom I owe so many endless words of gratitude.
Merry, merry, Christmas (and happy holidays) to all my family and friends. May the magic of Christmas (and the holiday season) fill your hearts with hope, love, peace and miracles!