Christmas Without Candy

For the last six years I have made multiple batches of cinnamon candy for Christmas. For the last four years I have sent out Christmas cards. This year there are no cards. And, although back in October I bought ingredients to make 7 batches of candy, I will only be making one or two (because I promised an elderly lady at church). So, if you're used to getting these things from me, please don't think I just forgot you. Not doing these things was a choice to reduce the stress in my life. The last two months have been tough professionally, personally, emotionally, and physically. Normally, I would react to these kinds of stressors and disappointments by staying busy, adding more responsibilities, and setting new goals. But, I decided to act counterintuitively and remove as much busyness as possible so that I can experience all of the lessons this time will bring. And it's been difficult to stick with my decision. 

I've always loved the Christmas season and enjoy doing the typical "Christmasy" kinds of stuff. I think those things have their place for fun and to spread joy and connectedness. So, on one hand I feel as though I've somehow missed the entire month of December. I actually just changed my office calendar from November today. Oops. But, I feel like this has been a good exercise in simplicity. My prayer is to become more aware of the silence. The small miracles. The basics. After all, isn't that how Christmas started? In the dark. In the silence. In the simplicity of a manger. No Christmas tree. No decorations. No candy, greeting cards, or parties. Just Life. And the promise of a lifetime of fresh starts. 

So...Happy Birthday, Savior. And a Fresh Start to all of you.