Paying Attention to Love
Inflatable yard decorations have become very popular this time of year. Most of the time, they provide a sense of good cheer to all who pass by. Occasionally, though, due to a leak or other malfunction, they either collapse on the ground or struggle to stand up straight.
While out for a run a few days ago, I passed a house with three inflatable decorations in the front yard that were at best about two-thirds inflated. I was able to recognize that they were Santa, an elf, and a snowman. They were wavering back and forth as if they were trying to stand up but just couldn’t quite do it. As I continued on, I thought that what I had just seen was an appropriate symbol for the holiday season this year. We are all feeling a bit deflated, even as we waver back and forth, trying to make the best of the challenges we are facing.
Many of us are making the excruciatingly painful decision not to celebrate with family and friends with the intention of keeping ourselves and our communities safe. Most faith communities are also making the difficult but safe decision not to gather in person, another loss for many this year (although I am inspired by the many amazing online celebrations I see that many churches will be offering). It’s only natural to feel that some, or perhaps a lot, of the air has been let out of the joy we usually feel this time of year.
I have always believed that whatever we pay attention to is what will grow. If we only pay attention to what can’t or won’t be happening this Christmas, we will feel deflated. If we pay attention instead to that for which we are grateful, we will realize that the true essence of Christmas is and has always been the gift and celebration of love. And so, while many things have been canceled this holiday season, love is not one of them.
Whatever we pay attention to is what will grow. While not ignoring some of the deflation we may be feeling this Christmas, I invite us all to pay attention to the memories and moments of love that surround us and to be grateful.
To those of you who celebrate, we at Living Compass wish you a Christmas filled with love and gratitude.
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