I know for some people, the idea of seeing their family during the holidays brings sheer joy and happy feelings. Likely for the number of people who are delighted, there is an equal number of people who struggle during these days. There is pain and brokenness in relationships. There is anger and bitterness and unforgiveness. There is grief and longing and sorrow and hardships. There is so much that can be provoked as families gather.
During the Holidays you will have choices to make about how you choose to engage every person, the ones you enjoy and the ones who provoke. Consider goodness and grace, even towards those who are more difficult for you to be gracious and generous towards.
I invite you to be generous in your words, your kindness, your smile, your eye contact, your goodness and trust that good can come, even in challenging spaces and with those you may consider difficult people.
Find ways in the comings days, where you surprise yourself or surprise others, with how you, in your words and actions, make someone feel excellent about them self. It is a beautiful gift to offer!
