A Christmas of Goodness

Over the past few years, Christmas has been difficult. Through very trying times, a divorce, an errant daughter, and Covid, my funds dried up and I lost our family home. There are times when it makes me very sad, but I’ve decided to just try and move along in life.

My family, however, seems to have different ideas. There are constant battles between family members, mothers and sons, daughters, and grandchildren. I love them all dearly, but the spirit of Christmas seems to have disappeared.

There were troubles this year too, but maybe they are more manageable than in other years. On one hand, one of the most special people in my life actually said that this was one of his best Christmases in a number of years. He, like me, is a huge believer in the feelings of joy, happiness, and family that are so associated with Christmas. So chalk one up for the Angel of Christmas, maybe like most things, these troubles too shall pass.

We went to Mass on Christmas Eve. What a beautiful service! I can’t really explain the feeling that comes over me when I step into a church, any church. I’ve tried to explain it in the past, but words just fall short.

Walking in to sit down, I feel this incredible peace surrounding me. All the weight and worries of the world fall away and I know that goodness will prevail. I don’t know any other way to explain it. As I sing the beautiful century-old hymns, the richness of the music simply envelopes me in joy. Music does tame the beast and warms the cockles of my heart.

I’ve always felt this, even as a very young girl. Traveling through other countries throughout my life, I’ve visited many churches, some during service, but not always. It’s kind of like coming home to me. I know many of you may laugh and think that it’s nonsense, but that’s totally ok. I think my faith in something larger than myself is what makes me understand that everything happens for a reason, and what seems like a hardship now, won’t be forever.

This year there was, once again a bit of drama within our family. However, upset as I was in the moment, I know that this too shall pass. I only become frustrated when respect flies out the window.

Maybe I’m aging and set in my ways, but I still feel that the youngest generation should be taught the magic feeling of Christmas. Not just the Santa part, but the goodness part as well. I know it’s hard to understand, but giving to others creates happiness in yourself as long as you give from your heart.

I’ve been told many times that I give too much. I know I’ve been taken for a ride at times in the past, but those have become learning experiences. A chance to grow, become stronger, and of course, wiser.

When faced with the holiday of Christmas, what thoughts cross your mind? I think of Christmases past when I’d haul the kids and their friends out on Christmas Eve in my old convertible wrapped in quilts, roof down, heater full blast, and a thermos full of rich, warm hot chocolate to sing carols throughout the neighborhood.

We did it so many times over the years in our small town, that the fire department started following us to hand out bags of treats to all the children that would come out to join in. It was truly magical!

Then that turned into a tree lighting ceremony in the center of town where everyone could gather, share space, sing carols, and share a cup of Christmas cocoa with friends and neighbours alike! See, even one person, with a bit of patience, a lot of hope, and the feeling of Christmas can change something for someone. I miss those days, but heading to Church makes up for it.

Nowadays, we have Christmas at my daughter’s place. Her health is not very good, so we all pitch in to help with the cost and the meal, invite anyone who hasn’t family nearby, and simply share space, good food, and great times.

As the season comes to a close, I’m already making plans for next year. Thinking about how I can lighten the load for my daughter, still gather everyone under one roof, and celebrate in the best old-fashioned way. I’ve got ideas, but we’ll see as time goes by, just what I can make happen.

Christmas is a very special time. A time when wars cease – even if only for a day; neighbors wish each other good tidings and even the ‘Scroogiest’ people seem to pause and reflect. Thank you, Universe for the magic of Christmas!