It’s the last month of the year and many are slowly getting into the Holiday season. I love the concept of love, family, gifting and getting but what are we doing for ourselves during this time? Will we choose to be patient with our shortcomings and weaknesses? What about the gift of living on purpose and the promise to never settle? We can give ourselves the gift of accepting hope and love when the opportunities present themselves. Maybe, like me, you need forgiveness for yourself and others who have hurt you. While you are decorating, baking, and buying gifts for others, don’t forget about YOU. Don’t forget to put you and your wellness first.

I know that for some this season may not be so happy. In the midst of all that’s going on, and while you may be listening to Deck the Halls, decorating your tree, hanging ornaments, etc., I’d like to ask you about how you are decorating the halls of your personal life. You don’t have to answer me. This is a question for you to ask yourself.

We put a lot of time into our outward appearance, our lights, the food preparations and gift shopping; but how much time are we putting into making sure that our lives are decorated with the decor of happiness, health and wellness? Sometimes, the decoration we need is service to others. Sometimes, it’s celebrating those who are present without fixating on those who are absent. And sometimes, it’s being patient until the season passes. It’s my prayer that you’d hang hope and that you’d hang  laughter. Make time for moments of reflection. Collect ornaments of forgiveness, thankfulness and openness to love and family. It may not be the easiest thing that you do this season but it will definitely be worth it. It’s what I’m working on.

For my family, Christmas is very segregated. I see very few family members and I feel sad about that. In addition, I spend very little time with close friends. I don’t feel festive. However, I choose to decorate my heart with memories of moments of togetherness. I choose to have faith and hope in better days. I choose to invest in and appreciate the family and friends that I have. I know that I’m blessed. I refuse to forget that.

I wish you all the best. Don’t hesitate to reach out to me if you need help or support.

Hope Always,

💜Missy