“It’s the most wonderful time of the year!”
Christmas. Although Christmas means more to me than the incessant publicity and sales shoved in our faces, we can’t help but gush over the decor and the cheeriness of it all. We do carried away by the pretty lights, the warm drinks, the dressed-up trees, mistletoes, our ornaments holding sentimental value, the fresh smell of pinecones, presents under the tree, boots padding through soft snow — the world resided by candy canes, reindeers, elves, and Santa Claus.
Christmas is a happy occasion.
Getting to spend time with loved ones: whether it be family, close friends, comradery of acquaintances gathered through shared pursuits, or celebration of a day off.
It’s the warmth you feel when you see familiar faces.
It’s the warmth you feel from the smiles, the hugs, and the atmosphere.
It’s the warmth you feel when you cradle a cup of hot cocoa in your hands.
It’s the warmth that you feel when you are able to relax and bask in the joy around you.
Christmas is also the day I am reminded of how thankful I am. Thankful for what I’ve been given, for what I’ve learned, for what I’ve grown through, for the people who stuck by me till now. It’s gratitude for God’s grace, it’s gratitude for the little things, it’s gratitude for another chapter closing.
Another chapter.
And it is at this point, that Christmas strikes fear in my mind.
Christmas signifies the end of yet another year.
Christmas signifies another chapter closing up.
New goals, new responsibilities — or rather resumed responsibilities with a vow to “do things better.”
The start of a new year understandably adds pressure.
How do I tackle this?
What comes next?
Am I ready for this?
What do I do?
What am I doing with my life?
We are filled with fear — maybe for the new things, or the return of.
It’s okay to feel fear and doubt. It’s normal to. And sometimes, having that fear is an indication of how important that task or goal is to you.
But I hope you know that although it is normal to feel this way —
We should not let our fears paralyse us.
We should not let them win.
I hope you know that though it may be easier said than done —
You are braver than you believe, stronger than you seem, and smarter than you think.
We may be filled with fear of the unknown,
But hang in there.
You will get through this.
Wherever you are, it’s an opportunity to begin —
To renew, to resume, to reflect.
It will get better.
