New Year’s Day is a mixed emotion holiday. For many, last year was no picnic and we are happy to close the books on the chapter.
The tough year had many shining moments as well, if we choose to seek them. They are definitely days and hours we will never have again and are precious if only for their uniqueness.
Several years ago, I had an epiphany about the whole post-holiday blues syndrome. As moms, the exhaustion after Christmas is the primary contributor to our let down. We have catered and orchestrated the dreams of the family and deserve to take a few moments to sit down and breathe.
For me, there is no more post-holiday sadness. I no longer compare Christmas present to Christmas past – a practice that previously ruined many a season for me.
Instead, I find myself filled with post-Christmas gladness! Why?
We have experienced another year together and have 365 days of memories. The kids will never again be at these ages. As the grown ups, our lives inevitably change each year as well. We will never pass this way again.
The Lord’s grace was showered upon us in more ways than we were even aware of. We have enjoyed health, happy moments, protection from evil and hundreds of other unseen instances of grace He has allowed in our year.
Lord willing, we have an opportunity ahead of us for another year of memories. We have no idea how He will move in our lives, what blessings He will bestow upon us. New Year’s is a time of lifting the lid on a great gift – more life, more time.
Are you sad that another Christmas has passed? Give thanks for the blessings of the year and wait with joyful anticipation to see what lies ahead.
It’s a gift. Receive it with gladness.
