Oh, what wonders December has for us! The glow of lights, the traditions, the food!

Celebration allows us to embrace the good, the victories, the moments of success, the milestones achieved, and the life we live. Celebration shifts our perspective. It highlights our values and intentions in life.

Celebration strengthens us.

The holiday season allows us to set aside our daily responsibilities. . . and expand them exponentially! We expand our tables, our free time, and our hearts so we can feel life, experience it, and be new again. Somehow by bringing more people into our lives, we remember that though we are tired, joy is still available. There is restoration in prioritizing conversation, sitting by the fire, and rest. There is love to surround us if only we choose to receive it.

Love often does not take the form we expect. It is a gift that is surprisingly hard to receive. However, when celebrating, it is easier to see the kindness of others and be reminded of how often love is present. It isn’t usually found in flashing lights or the most expensive packages. It is more likely found in a whisper humming in our hearts as we move daily. Love is present in the rhythm of a loyal friend’s call. Love is strengthened every time your family travels to your front door. Love is sustained when you make your grandfather’s cake a decade after his passing.

The rest of the year may have been filled with disappointments, loss, hurt, and tireless efforts. At Christmas, though, we remove a self-preserving emotional armor and replace it with a ridiculously ugly Christmas sweater. We eat the cake and give a toast. We remember how to receive a big hug and let others show their care for us.

Love replaces weariness, and Christmas becomes a season for emotional healing.

Celebration is an avenue for emotional healing to occur. I believe every low needs an equal and opposite high. So my recommendation for all those who mourn, embrace celebration. For everyone hurting, allow yourself the freedom of joy.

And may the celebration of this season fill you with strength.

Merry Christmas!