This was an extraordinary week. I know it is supposed to be the season of magic. The season of joy and possibilities.
One thing I know for sure. It is the season of hope.
We're all running around like crazy trying to get things done by Christmas Eve. It can drive us to sheer madness.
Are we happy and excited? Are we anxious and weary?
When we're young the holidays are a time filled with wonder, of great joy and anticipation. As we age what happens to us? When did that childlike wonder leave us? Or is it possible to carry that innocence somewhere in our hearts?
On a snowy, gray day that matched my mood, I threw on my snow boots and down coat to maneuver our long driveway to collect our mail. To my great surprise, there was a large package addressed to me.
I was so happy see it.
Remember how we used to feel when we opened our mailbox, and there was an envelope with your name and address handwritten on it? The anticipation of birthday or holiday cards was so exciting I couldn't wait for the mailman to come.
I quickly tore my package open.
What was inside is what the holiday season is all about. It brought tears to my eyes, and lifted my spirits.
My dear friend saw a photo of our cat, Max, and created this portrait. She sent it as a gift and surrounded me in joy and friendship. In an instant, my heart felt lighter.
Do you ever become nostalgic over the holidays? Thinking of past celebrations and the people you miss; thinking of those who are gone, and those who live far away?
Every year I get a box of Kleenex ready to watch the short TCM video tribute to people in front of and behind the camera who have passed. I feel sad they are gone, yet thankful for the many gifts they left for the ages. They are all treasures.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P6gXi67ueD0
We live in a world where headlines buzz daily about greed, hatred, sickness and violence. We become cynical, wary of the guy next to us, doubting the sincerity of our fellow man. We cut ourselves off from seeing the simple things, the generosity of spirit and beauty around us.
It's no wonder we lose our innocence as we get older.
Another surprise gift I received from another dear friend. It touched my heart.
Photo: BooksIsWonderful.com
At this time of year I take time to reflect on the beauty in the world, and, in doing so, try to create a better "me" by telling myself I am blessed and have so much to be thankful for. I think of those blessings and hold them close.
On our darkest days we must prevail by remembering the blessings in our lives.
The video above was sent to me by fellow blogger extraordinaire Sharon Hodor Greenthal who first invited me into her blogging community. I was welcomed with open arms. Sharon shares my love of Peanuts and Frank and Broadway. She and her partner in crime, Anne Parris, and all the midlife bloggers at Midlife Boulevard, support each other on a daily basis.
In my fifties I am blessed with all of the new friendships I have found with them, both online and in real life.
The world may seem cold at times, and life can feel dark and bleak. But I have hope that tomorrow will always be a better day, and that the holidays are filled with magic and wonder and joy.
The innocence and wonder of childhood can last a lifetime. As I said, this is a season of hope.
I wish you all a Merry Christmas and a Healthy and Happy New Year.
A season of hope indeed. Thank you for this. <3
Cathy, you are the epitome of joy, possibilities and hope. Thank you for sharing this beautiful post -- and your beautiful spirit. Looking forward to a fantastic new year with you. xo
Loved every word.
Lovely tribute to friends woven in your message of hope and celebration. Thank you for the reminders! Painting of your kitty cat is delightful!
Awww!!! I love this, Cathy, and I love you! You are a blessing to everyone who knows you. Sending you virtual hugs until the next time we meet.
Thx Cathy - I needed to read this today...happy holidays to you too!
Cathy, this is such a beautiful post and I'm honored to be mentioned. The addition of you as part of my life has been one of the great joys of blogging! Have a wonderful holiday season and a happy and healthy new year to you and your family.
What a lovely post! I just adore that your friend sent you a picture of your cat!! What a wonderful gift! I am so glad I have had the honor of getting to "know" you via Midlife Boulevard! Wishing you and your family a wonderful holiday!
A Happy and Healthy New Year to you too! That is a great portrait of your cat.
One of your best posts ever. You have such a gift of being able to write your feelings and really move people. I also still love opening the mailbox and hoping for something personal to be inside. Although it is rare, I haven't given up hope.
What a lovely gift from your friend.
This post lifted my spirits big time. My best friend is battling for her life, my Dad is very ill but the mailman is delivering a bunch of toys I ordered for the 13 grandkids. That's a lot of blessings.
Merry Christmas!
Beautiful piece Cathy. I love reading about both the things that give you hope as they radiate to others as well.
May you be BLESSED this Holiday!!
I love magic, Christmas lights and giving presents!!! I confess, even when I am weary from doing (most) of the work for the holidays, I never fail to reflect on my memories...and people I love and are still here, as well as people I love and have lost. Sing a song of Christmas!
Just lovely, Cathy. Happy, happy holidays to you!
Thank you Cathy. You warm all of our hearts with your gifts of love, strength and humanity. Thanks for the heartwarming post.