All I want for Christmas

There is a lovely post floating around on Facebook reminding people that amidst the festive celebrations of the holidays, to take a moment to remember there are those who are not so happy this time of year....those who are less fortunate, grieving losses, or maybe have to be alone for the holidays. I will admit, I was not looking forward to the holiday season this year. They can be quite lonesome and depressing. I was happy to be on a date for Halloween, but disappointed when there was no follow up. I skipped the annual placing of poinsettia plants on the graves this year, leaving the duty to mom. I honestly wasn't in the mood to see all the names of loved ones carved in granite on the ground. Cemeteries really aren't my thing...at least not for paying respects to those long gone. I prefer to remember loved ones daily, in my heart...where flowers aren't necessary. Like every time I see a pretty piece of jewelry or handbag, I think of Auntie Hiroko. Or hear a motorcycle engine, I think of Mark. And when I hear a funny joke, I think of my pop. And every loss is a great one....whether it be a parent, spouse, child or friend. There is a deep connection that is suddenly cut off in your life. And it takes time to heal...longer for some than others. Love and support help, but I truly believe the person has to be ready to heal and move on. I have been fortunate to spend some quality time with friends in recent weeks...even having the joy of extended phone calls, texts and on-line chats with distant friends. And I have been blessed with meeting someone special and spending time getting to know him. I am learning to be happy and allow love in my life again. I am once again excited to celebrate the holidays with someone I care about...to share laughs, smiles and kisses. Although we won't be together on Christmas day, the spirit of the holiday is what matters most. My wish for Christmas is for everyone reading this to reach out to someone who might not be in a place to feel that love, excitement and joy the rest of us are blessed enough to have. Maybe a relative who would appreciate a visit. Or a friend who might need a quick chat and cup of coffee with someone. Or even a stranger on the streets who could use a jacket or blanket with colder weather in the forecast. It might even be your spouse or kid, who got yelled at for something silly...hugs and smiles go a long way this time of year.