Reflection

It’s hard to believe that we are just days away from an entirely new year.  I’ve never been one for New Year’s Resolution’s.  In fact, I don’t think I’ve ever made one.  I am, however, a big one for reflection.  Reflecting on what was, on what is, and what will be.  As the day approaches for the calender to transition that “0” into the “1” to make 2011, I have many, many thoughts. 

I will save those for another day.

Right now my mind is fixed on the upcoming days that will be full of activity, laughter, love, and togetherness.  Days of making memories while listening to children laughing, gathering around tables, and being thankful for all that make up these beautiful days.  My family will experience yet another “first” as we experience Christmas without my mom.  My family will will also rejoice as we spend Christmas with my father-in-law who made it through radiation this year and continues to be a cancer survivor.  One thing that has become so clear to me this year is that I come from a family of survivors. . .

We will all be okay.

So, during these next few days amidst the hustle and bustle, I am vowing to slow down.  I am going to be intentional about taking it in, and being right here, right now.  I will close my eyes and take a deep breath and listen to all that is around me.  I will listen to the sounds of beautiful Christmas music, to the squeals of my children, to the laughter of my brother and sister, to the silliness of my husband and brother-in-law. 

I will feel it, too.  I will feel the way that my heart grows bigger and bigger with each moment spent with family and friends.  I will feel the arms that wrap around me in the kind of hug only my Dad gives.  I will feel the lump rise in my throat when I experience the absence of my mom on Christmas.  More than anything, though, I will feel the love that fills me to capacity as I reflect on this precious and beautiful life. 

It really is good.

May each one of you who enters this little space take a moment and breathe deeply and feel deeply all that is wonderful and beautiful and marvelous in this life.