In just a week . . . seven days as I write this . . . Christmas will arrive in all its magical splendor, followed closely by the New Year with all its promises and hope. For many of us, those are exactly the emotions and moments we will experience. Magic. Splendor. Promise. Hope.

But for the rest? Not so much. As a matter of fact, a lot of us will find ourselves caught in the Twilight Zone of conflicting feelings. 

Is it possible to enjoy something after dreading it? Yes. Is it possible to travel through Time without ever leaving the present? Yes. The blessing and curse of memory makes those, and so much more, a reality.

So, today I want to encourage you to enjoy what you can and embrace those memories that bring to Life what you cannot. I want to remind you to be patient with yourself and with those around you who may not understand, or who may be on the same journey as you. And I want to challenge you to look for the silver linings, even though they may seem almost nonexistent. Even finding just one tiny little glimmer of hope will make such a difference. And for those who can fully experience and enjoy the magic and hope ahead, please remember how blessed you are and be grateful. For a whole host of reasons, a lot of people are struggling right now. 

In just a week . . . seven days as I write this . . . Christmas will arrive in all its magical splendor, followed closely by the New Year with all its promises and hope. Enjoy what you can. Embrace what was rather than attempting to banish it. And remember to claim for yourself—and give to those around you—the peace and grace of the season.

About the author:  Lisa Shackelford Thomas is a fourth-generation member of a family that’s been in funeral service since 1926 and has worked with Shackelford Funeral Directors in Savannah, Tennessee for over 45 years.  Any opinions expressed here are hers and hers alone and may or may not reflect the opinions of other Shackelford family members or staff.