Today was tough. It didn't help that I started the day grumpy, tired and overwhelmed. But, the real challenges of the day came later. It started me thinking about the spirit of Christmas. What is it about this season that keeps people moving forward despite challenges that would seem overwhleming on a good day. In spite of difficulties, the spirit of Christmas was evident everywhere today.
My story for today is not complete, although it is well after midnight. I will finish this spread when I have fully internalized the experience of today. Overwhelming though is the need to share that the Spirit of Christmas is alive. It is alive in the believing, sharing, loving and caring I witnessed throughout the day and deep into the evening.
My dear friend Howard, who has been struggling for months, was moved to a hospice facility today. Howard has always been one of my angels. When things became difficult, as they are wont to do, Howard and Marianne were always there. Whether it was to put together furniture, babysit, hug or hold me up. They have always been among those closest to my children and I. Tonight, as I held Howard's hand I felt the struggle he is currently dealing with.
My story for today comes from the many moments of unselfishness, in the midst of real life suffering. I will always remember the wife of the gentleman sharing a room with Howard. Her story was full of love, concern and faith. She stepped out of her comfort zone and embraced us, a shared understanding of the moments we were holding onto.
Then there was another diagnosis of cancer for a friend with too many cancers already for me to keep track of, the overwhelming need to diagnose the source of pain for another and just trying to get a weeks worth of work done in just a couple of days. This time of year can be stressful.
Throughout it all, the spirit of Christmas is alive. I hope I am eloquent enough to share the story of today. To bear witness to all that keeps the spirit alive. Tonight I am comforted by that which is the spirit of Christmas.
