Packing Up

As we prepare
to shut the door on 2019
and see what fresh adventures await us in 2020,
I'd like to have you take a moment
and really ponder the past 365.
It's probably safe to say
that it wasn't all peaches and cream,
but look how far you've come,
marvel at how much you've grown,
be astounded with your accomplishments.
Sure you get a flat tire every now and then,
but the journey is far greater
than a setback or two.
You will wake up tomorrow
to 365 more opportunities,
12 months to create what you want,
4 seasons to be wowed by the Grand Illustrator.
Pack up those precious memories of this year.
Lay them as a strong and sturdy foundation
for next year.
The world is your playground,
and your vision is 2020.

OMG Yes, this!!!

Not sure who said it,
or quite how it really goes,
but something amazingly like this:

Do not
adapt to the energy
in the room.
Instead,
influence the energy
in the room.

There is love

With the end of 2019 coming up on us quickly,
I find it a normal act to reflect
on the past twelve months.
There have been tears.
There have been laughter.
There have been hard work.
There have been set backs.
There have been miracles.
There have been adventures.
There have been disappointments.
There have been great accomplishments.
And through it all,
no matter what,
there is love.

And I am certain,
that no matter what 2020 can throw at us,
love remains.

Be alive!

There are plenty of scary things out there.
Sickness,
loss,
unemployment,
ugliness,
bitterness,
betrayal,
mean people,
hate.
But do not be afraid.

Be alive!

Because there is also every opportunity for
health,
longevity,
dream jobs,
beauty,
kindness,
loyalty,
Angels,
love.

Be alive!

To Give

I find such a
great warmth in giving.
Not just the tired matching pajamas,
or the silly, sarcastic t-shirts,
but in searching and seeking,
listening and learning,
finding something unique and special
that touches a heart
or even a few
and makes a soul smile.
There is nothing quite so fulfilling
as to generate a memory,
lift a heart,
hear laughter,
fill a void.
It is a beautiful blessing -
to give.

Your Table

As you prepare your holiday tables,
please remember
an empty seat and place setting
(literal or not)
for those that cannot join you.
Keep memories alive,
traditions strong,
and love in all you do.
Also,
place the joy of the season
at the feet of He who deserves it.
A tiny babe
alive to bless us all.
Merry Christmas!

Enjoy! Every! Second!

Might take a hiatus
at least for tomorrow
to enjoy our own festivities!

I believe this!

The answer to 'why'

when bad stuff happens

is this:

Some day,

you will share your story

of your heartbreak

and your struggle

and your victory

and

it will be

someone else's survival guide.