It is often said that Christmas is the season of giving, but for me, it holds a much deeper meaning. Beyond the presents and the warm cups of gluwein, Christmas has always been about family. It is a time to reflect, honor, and prioritize the bonds that hold us together. As I embrace the beauty of this season, I wholeheartedly believe in the power of reconnecting with souls that may have drifted away and rekindling with those who truly matter.
In the essence of this heartfelt celebration, my brother and I have embarked on an extraordinary journey. A call from our beloved grandmother, as delicate as a whisper, reached our ears. I want to see my daughter once more, to hold her, before I go. It is time for me to go, she uttered with a vulnerability that moved the very core of our beings. This year, we are taking our devotion to family to the next level.
As we gathered on a cozy yoga mat, our thoughts swirled in a deep check-in with ourselves. Our mother, sensing the importance of this precious moment, insisted on flying us home in business class. She yearns for the lasting memory of embracing her mother one final time. It is an extravagant notion, one that we would typically countenance, but this time, we say, Damn it! Let’s do it! For this extraordinary experience will indubitably become an indelible memory etched in the tapestry of our lives.
In the spirit of the holidays, we recognize that everything else can patiently await our return. There will always be time for the hustle and bustle, the deadlines and obligations that often consume our lives. But now, in this fleeting moment, it is time to place family first. As we embark on this journey of love and togetherness, we understand the preciousness of these shared moments. We will cook delicious foods, read stories by a crackling fireplace, and cherish quality time that is irreplaceable.
So, dear readers, let us remember the true essence of Christmas. It is not merely a day marked on the calendar, but a profound celebration of the love that binds us. It is an opportunity to create lasting memories and show gratitude for the cherished souls who have shaped us. As the world whirls around us, let us pause and rejoice in the warmth of familial connection. May this holiday season remind us that family is the greatest gift of all.
Wishing you all a Christmas filled with love, laughter, and cherished moments.
Julie Spark
