We’re back now from our Christmas travels, and enjoying the glow and the memory of several gifts we received that were better than anything we could have imagined. The best gift was that for the first time in many years we were able to spend the Christmas holiday with both of our kids at the same time. This has been pretty much impossible ever since they grew up and started jobs, lives, and families of their own, and even more so since one of them lives in Minnesota and the other in Florida. So having them both with us on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day was indeed the best gift of all, along with being able to share in our granddaughter’s first Christmas.
Another welcome and exciting gift was the announcement that our son and daughter-in-law are expecting another baby – our second grandchild. Our granddaughter will be one year old in January, and will become a big sister in July. We are thrilled beyond words, and already looking forward to greeting the new arrival.
In the aftermath of the Christmas holiday – and the commercialism that is such a big part of the season, no matter how much we complain about it and wish it weren’t so – I’m reminded now of a popular quote that says, “The best things in life aren’t things.”
The best things in life, and the best gifts – whether at Christmastime or any other time of the year – are not the ones that are wrapped up in pretty paper and ribbons. The best gifts are the good news and good times we’re able to share with the people we love. They’re the milestones and memories we live and relive with our family and friends. They’re the gifts of the heart that bring us peace, joy, and hope for the future.
I hope these are the gifts you received this Christmas, and that you will continue to experience and enjoy them throughout the New Year.
December 30, 2019
©Betty Liedtke, 2019
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