(I posted this on my social media a couple days ago but want it saved here to be remembered amidst the memories I’m saving regarding our travels)

A Christmas reflection. May it be a blessing to anyone experiencing the season very differently this year.

May you realize the real meaning of the season; Anticipation, joy, gratitude, being in present moment. Perhaps you’ve slowed down enough this year to observe the play of darkness and light and come to accept that we need a healthy dose of both at differing amounts in different seasons.

May you realize that you have all that you need and even, likely, most of what you want. That this year you got new shoes and that was enough because it means you can keep walking and exploring new trails. May you have gratitude for the simple things, a warm vintage sweater, a cozy little corner, thriving plants, desert sunshine.

May you accept the grief this year afforded you to fully feel. The grief of missed family gatherings, hugs from friends, meals together, shared smiles and laughs.

May you have a new appreciation for such simple yet meaningful relationships the next time it is safe to be together in person.

May you continue chasing wild dreams and allowing them to play out without your controlling direction or obsession, realizing that something Higher has conspired in your favor this whole time for you to experience it all in its perfect unfolding.

May you continue to rest in the assurance that you don’t have to perform or share it all as you go. That it’s always about being in the moment and to continue letting go of the compulsive desire to make it look easy or perfect.

May you continue to give yourself and others such abundant grace that it acts as a balm for all that ails us. May you see fully that it is about all of us, we are all connected, that the least of these and the other are all one of us. That apathy and indifference and ego must be universally healed and that it’s up to all of us to do this healing work together.

May you experience curiosity and joy in starting new traditions, especially if you’re celebrating this season somewhere unexpected or alone.

May you find wonder in the mundane, rest and renewal in the dark hibernation time, and growth and perspective in the extended solitude. Keep doing what you’re doing and remember to be kind to everyone you encounter on this journey. May we all know what true suffering is and appreciate one another all the more for experiencing it collectively yet in our own unique ways.