At this time of year, life can feel overwhelming with endless lists: gift shopping, wrapping, decorating, meal planning, holiday prepping, entertaining, and partying. But may I remind you to slow down and reflect on what truly matters?
This morning, a friend awaiting major surgery for a life-threatening condition messaged me: “Please pray for me.” She is in excruciating pain, and her surgery is scheduled just before Christmas.
If you have your health, you truly hold life’s greatest wealth.
Then this afternoon, while browsing Christmas decorations, a stranger beside me began to weep as she watched the joy on my children’s faces. She gently pulled me aside and said: “What you have with your children is really special. Mine are all grown and live abroad. It all moves too fast, and this year I’ll be alone for Christmas. Treasure it.”
So friends, let’s treasure it all – every single bit of it. Because where your heart is, there your treasure will be also.
Set aside the lists, the organizing, the rushing, and the traffic. Slow down. Look around. Notice the treasures already in your life – your health, your loved ones, the moments, the love.
We are each given one life. Just one. This Christmas, take the time to recharge. Say “no” without guilt when your heart isn’t in it, and shout “YES” unapologetically to the people and moments that energize you. Embrace the fleeting magic of this season.
You are worth the effort. And so is this one beautiful, irreplaceable life you’ve been given.
