Wednesday, January 18, 2012

My How Time Does Fly

Well, finally after having spent two days to figure out what google account I had associated with Renderings I finally am back "in"

It was a reflective Christmas with much time for fun, friends and family.

So many I am speaking with are thinking the same...maybe it's the age, maybe it's the economy, maybe it is a greater awareness.   But, we all agree we have made measures to reduce, reduce, reduce.

Family sharing, making memories and not being so stressed that we forget about the whole reason we have this season has become much bigger a priority.  Maybe that is where need to look at our lives.... in our priorities.

When Chris and I first got married we spent an hour opening gifts to each other.  Horrified that I am now (of course this is over 30 years ago) I can remember being miserable because he could not find this particular necklace I wanted.  It just colored the whole day, night and season.  I look at who I was then and who I am now and wonder "where did she come from?"

I do have to say it was a learning experience though.  I stepped back after Christmas that year and said I was quite the whiny little wife.  I was selfish and how DARE I take that kind of attitude with 1.  A man who does nothing but try to please and 2. Making it about me.

I changed.

Even now I cringe at the old me.  I thank God every day that he has taught me appreciation, being in the moment, acceptance and above all grace.

These days we exchange a few gifts and make our candlelight meal on Christmas Even the "event" at home and the late night service at church our Heavenly dessert. 

It has made life so easy and has taken away the pressures of the "world" and has given me an appreciation of that small babe who gave his all for me.

Oh it has been a journey.  We are finally getting the families more on board.  Making memories is much more fun and appreciated than a token gift.  Getting together for lunch during the year is such a delight without having a "holiday" to solidify it.

So dear ones I ask this January you reflect upon next Christmas season (which starts earlier and earlier) and start taking those baby steps (especially if you have children) to truly make "Jesus the reason for the season". 

For a peace that passes all understanding, you will not regret it.

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