'TIS THE SEASON...

‘Tis the Season
 
It’s holiday time again! The time when Mothers worldwide see children that they may not have seen for months, grandchildren get more gifts than they can open in one setting, and all of us, and I do mean all, eat WAY MORE than we should.  It’s a good season.  Even as I write this I am smiling as I listen to laughter from up the hall. Stories of “Remember when,” and “Can you believe?”  Stories and change and transition. Moments of quiet reflection as we think about those that are no longer with us (R.I.P. to Theresa, Mary, Ben, and many others).

However for some, there are other sounds that may be heard during this season. Sounds of jealousy and envy, bitterness and unresolved anger. What reminds some of love and gingerbread hugs, reminds others of pain and emptiness. It hurts. For some people the holidays flat out hurt. 

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For those that equate holidays with these sounds I want to encourage you to breathe. Just Breathe. Hurting people hurt people, who then in turn hurt more people. But it doesn't have to be this way. Look, really look at the individuals or groups that may have hurt you. I guarantee you that those that make a practice of hurting others aren't happy, so don't try to hurt them back or retaliate. Most times they are rehearsing pain themselves. Breathe, walk away, even cry-but don't own someone else's poison/pain. 

​Do you have a right to fight back? Get in a quick jab or dig? Sure. But does it change your pain? No.

One of my favorite movie lines is Peter Parker’s uncle in Spiderman. It simply states, “just because you can beat someone up doesn’t mean that you should.”
This statement is so powerful. It removes tit for tat and feeling the need to prove yourself to someone or a group of someone. It reminds me that fighting fire with fire only create a bigger fire. Do we really want to hurt people we love? Or is it a reactionary flare up?  When wronged, hurt, or even disappointed it’s easy to respond in an unloving manner. Some do it every year. This year let’s not.  Let’s not fight the same battle over an incident that occurs decades ago.  Let’s choose instead to tap into the new mercies that accompany every sunrise. Even if that mercy is being bestowed on someone (or ones) who hurt you.
In the wisest book ever published it states, “All things are permissible, but all things are not beneficial (I Cor. 10:23-24).” In the God’s Word translation is reads, “Someone may say, "I'm allowed to do anything," but not everything is helpful. I'm allowed to do anything, but not everything encourages growth. Be concerned about others and not just ourselves.” 
This remind yourself to choose mercy daily and focus on the laughter and the love. To focus on others as a choice and not just a convenience. You can do it; and I believe you will.  Stay Blessed. And Breathe.
 
“I thank God for you, Peter.”  😊
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