This is an updated version of an article that first appeared at RadicalStory.com in 2020 Christmas is in full swing once again. Homes are decorated with string lights, Santas and reindeer. Stores are full of frantic Christmas shoppers. Everywhere you look there are office Christmas parties, gift … [Read more...] about The Best Christmas Story
christmas
Pack Away Christmas, Not Jesus
It’s time to pack away Christmas and I’m ready. To be honest it’s early for me, but this year I feel more than ready. I’m taking down the all decorations, ornaments and lights, and packing them away until next December. My pretty white ceramic angels get carefully wrapped and placed … [Read more...] about Pack Away Christmas, Not Jesus
Christmas in Life’s Messiness
I had this article neatly written out in my head last night. It was going to be a sweet little piece about the joys of having children. I was helping my daughter overcome her fears of the dark and thought, “Isn’t this nice. I can bring such comfort just by being here. Motherhood is so … [Read more...] about Christmas in Life’s Messiness
I Still Believe in Christmas
Can Christmas be boycotted? I like to think so. I want to know so. Is that even a “thing”? I long to hold it tightly and believe in the real possibility. Boycott maybe isn’t the right word. It’s not that I don’t like or even love Christmas. I do. I love all the traditions and feelings, the gift … [Read more...] about I Still Believe in Christmas
Draw Near This Advent
I am just starting to emerge from a season of quiet. Not the nice, relaxing kind of quiet but the quiet that can drive you mad. The kind of quiet that stretches out for hours and days and weeks, when one day looks exactly like the next and you don’t know if it’s Monday or Thursday or Sunday. It’s … [Read more...] about Draw Near This Advent
The Price of Love – It’s Worth It
On my Christmas tree, high above where chubby toddler fingers can reach, hang three ornaments side by side. A pair of baby slippers, a ceramic work boot, and a ball with the name “Jon” inscribed on it. Three symbols of a life well lived but cut short. My heart was heavy as I adorned the tree, yet … [Read more...] about The Price of Love – It’s Worth It
