It's the little things....


Life's moments can seem big, but it's often the little things that help us to get through those moments.  Our family has had some big moments this year, not the least of which being the losses of my amazing father-in-law, Jim McGonnell, his twin, the beautiful Jane Lynch, and our nephew, the courageous Setlar Sykes. The 'firsts' after loss - first birthdays, family get togethers, holidays, anniversaries - can seem insurmountable...  How will we be able to manage Christmas without those who were so central to the celebration?
For me, it's recognizing and celebrating the small things that helps me to manage the big things.
  • It's serving a Christmas pudding and custard because I served it every year for my dad.  It was his favorite.  Most of the time, I'm the only one who eats it, but in my heart, I'm still sharing it with him.  
  • It's Jimmy putting together our stockings every year, including nuts, chocolate, and tiny little bottles, because that's what dad used to put in our stockings.  
  • It's getting up before everyone is awake and going for a run in the stillness of Christmas morning.  Yes, even on Christmas morning.  
  • It's quiet time on the couch with the dogs. 
  • It's spoiling the kids even though they're not kids anymore. 
  • It's getting out for a walk into the peacefulness of the woods. 
  • It's hearing the windchimes outside, and being mindful that Grandpa still talks to me.  
  • It's coffee by the fire, while watching the snow drift down. 
  • It's savoring the time with all the people who come home.
  • It's acts of kindness done for no particular reason.
  • It's being present for all the moments of all the days.
  • It's candles, a dark room, a glowing tree, and a singing choir,  
  • It's celebrating life - ours - theirs - and understanding that the little things ARE the big things. 
There is something incredibly beautiful about honoring the presence of a lost loved one while celebrating a special time.  But that's not the only time to celebrate the little things.  We can make each day a little bit more special by recognizing and celebrating the little things: a long warm bath or shower, reading time, a meal that has been prepared for you, watching the snow fall, feeding the birds, frost patterns on a window, a cozy blanket, a great cup of coffee, a conversation with a friend, taking a nap, soft socks, taking a day-trip, hiking a new trail, sitting quietly with a pet, breakfast in bed, blowing bubbles with a child, unplugging the devices, watching the geese fly overhead... you get it.   

Try it.  Devote one day to being mindful of the little things, and see how much more peace enters your heart and mind.  

As we enter the busy time of preparing for the holidays, I hope that you are able to take some quiet time and be mindful of the small moments.  You can't pour from an empty cup.  Take care of you.  

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