Life
What I Should Have Asked For On Christmas
2:57am and I am jolted awake with the realization that it is Christmas morning and I am filled with a sense of excitement, only to realize, I am alone this Christmas.
There were days that I wanted to decorate but then 30 seconds later, I would wonder what is the use… Who is going to see the tree besides myself… Who is going to appreciate the ornament from when my youngest son started believing in Santa Claus or when my oldest son started his first job at Publix… Who is going to laugh with me when looking at the chewed up branches from the puppy last year…
This is when most would say, “Do it for yourself! Make yourself happy!” Well, let me tell you, I’ve been single a very long time and I’m kind of over that mantra.
I was asked recently what I wanted for Christmas and I finally understood exactly what I wanted, more so need…
I want your time. I want for you to want to spend time with me.
I want you to be present. Pay attention, have a meaningful conversation.
I want you to ask me questions. Ask me how I’m doing being away from family. Be interested.
I want you to realize that gifts are not about the money spent, it is about the heart and love that went in to choosing that moment. If it’s a $5 coffee mug but you know that each time they look at that cup, they will think of you, PERFECT! You created several moments with that.
I want you to realize that it is the simple gestures that mean everything to me, not the grand over the top ones. Just be there.
It’s now New Years Day… These words have stuck with me for over a week but I had been scared to publish. What if someone took offense? But, my gift is to now share my thoughts, realizing that I am not the only one that felt this way.
If you feel that this is what you should have asked for for Christmas, share these words. Maybe it will resonate with those that need to hear it from you. If you’re trying to think of the perfect gift for someone, think of these words and give someone your time.