Unfortunately, there are many people who suffer during the holidays for several reasons. Perhaps it is the loss of a loved one, an illness, someone overseas serving in the military or being estranged from family members.
No matter what the situation might be; hopefully we all are able to have more empathy, compassion and understanding for our fellow human beings.
The TRUE meaning to celebrating during this time of year is to take a look at what is really important to you in your life, and follow through by acknowledging the gifts that have been given to you, and the best part is that you will NEVER find them in a store!!
I have reflected back on this past year and would like to share with you what I feel has been the gifts I have received that are absolutely priceless!
After my father passed away on January 18th 2015, I have had a little visitor at my office that loves to peck at my window and this red cardinal is very persistent! He sings in the tree outside and makes his presence known while I am working with my clients, but the gift he has given to me is I know my dad is thinking about me.
While my dad was alive we often spoke about the miracles in nature; he loved butterflies and enjoyed the pair of cardinals that fluttered around my garage window after the loss of my mom.
He laughed and would say, “That’s your mother watching over you!” There have been times when I was not having such a great day and this little red cardinal brought me joy, comfort and peace.
Another gift I received this year was the opportunity to facilitate a workshop based on Dr. Brené Brown’s new book; Rising Strong, which is on the New York Times best seller list!
Every single participant in the workshop had something very unique and special to offer during our sessions together. We laughed, we cried and we learned that everyone struggles, but there was also a deep respect and a sense of community with these women. During our last session; the theme was about creativity.
Graciously, two ladies provided the materials for everyone to explore their “creative self” and make their fabulous works of art! (see below)
I was in awe and wonder as I witnessed the new connections and friendships that were also made during this very special time with each other!
Last, but most importantly I just received a wonderful message from my brother Mark who had leukemia two years ago and needed a bone marrow transplant.
He was able to receive information about his donor; a married man with three children who lives in Poland!!!
This has been the BEST gift of all, we have prayed for this man who gave our brother a second chance at life!! He was able to see his youngest daughter graduate from high school and is walking his other daughter down the aisle for her wedding next June.
My heart is bursting with gratitude and reverence for this man who saved my brother, there a no words that are able to describe how it must feel to sacrifice for a total stranger, he is a hero! Please consider registering to be a donor at: www.bethematch.com
What a beautiful message! I smiile tears of joy when I think of the friendships formed at your workshop.