The Eve of Christmas Eve

Photo: My Swedish Christmas Korner 2010 ~ God Jul!

Is it possible that in the midst of my last-minute Christmas 'to-do' listings that I'm finding time to write a blog? Well, I chose to take a few minutes in my office to write a few last-minute random Christmas thoughts to those dear to me.

Daily we hear the famous quote, Christmas is for family. True, but that is only part of the reason for the season. This note is a reminder to all of us who have reasons to get a bit stressed with family during this holiday season. It happens to all of us, so don't feel like you're being punished for being a bad little girl ... or boy, as the case may be. Lets face it, some situations never change. For example, the relative who says to us, "We're going to do our own thing this Christmas." And off they go ... again ... year after year after year. Oh well. Their loss.

Then there's the other relative who mentions on the phone two days before Christmas, "Oh, by the way, we're not giving Christmas presents this year." Huh? Oh well. It's better to give than receive anyway, right?

These are only two examples of some of my friend's Christmas family challenges. The important thing I've learned through the years: don't take it too personal. Look at the source, take a deep breath, say a prayer and bless them, then have yourself a very Merry Christmas! Spend time with those who look forward to sharing a few hours out of their busy-ness to be with you. Embrace them. Love them. And who knows, perhaps the relative who seem the most distant will some day return to the fold.

Let us remember the real Reason for the Season ... the Baby who was born to take away the sins of the world. Jesus never seems to get enough of me. *Smile*

Here's wishing you oceans of blessings this Christmas season!