Categories: Hazel Rosetta Smith,
Tis the season to be happy, and that means you too. Life is good and we are still here. Christmas came and the baby Jesus was born. It was a birthday everyone could celebrate by choice. We shopped for the annual Christmas giving and had a jolly holly good time with family and friends.
The weather was chilly but nice; airports were filled to brim with folk heading to their families, and the railroads were rolling along on schedule. Now, we can take a deep breath and contemplate the new year that is upon us in just a few days.
Deep feelings of anxiety will surface if we dwell on how much we overspent again, after promises made last year that we would do better at budgeting holiday spending.
Life is full of swift transitions, trials and tribulations are a part of the journey. What matters the most is how we manage whatever may come along. We must not fill our minds with thoughts that do not serve any purpose other than to disturb our peace of mind. A will and a way are waiting to be discovered if pursued with calm determination and purpose.
Do not feel guilty that you feel good. It is your right to stand tall and proclaim proudly that you are content and that is not based on how much money is in your pocket or stashed in a bank account. Good health and happiness are more valuable than currency.
Wisdom is gained by cultivating an attitude of gratitude. Some are alone in their homes during the holidays, yet they have experienced that being alone does not mean lonely in the heart or spirit. With or without a mate or significant other, laughter is possible, happiness is plausible, and present if we allow it. Believe that the joy of the Lord is possible no matter where you are.
In the darkest moment, the unexpected can happen, if one’s mind is open to receive it. The reason for the season has carried you through Christmas and will hold you near throughout the coming new year.
Christmas will always be a symbol of a gift of love that came down from the Creator. New Year’s Eve with all of its revelry is meant to instill hope in the dawning of a new year.
Wave your victory flag in the face of adversity. Receive and believe in God’s goodness and mercies and that is how we can be thankful, joyful, and grateful all year long. Stay focused on the best of your days and commit to making the rest of your days better than the ones before
Happy New Year, Beloved; stay steady and carefully safe when going out and coming in.
[Hazel Rosetta Smith is a journalist, playwright, and director with Help Somebody Theatrical Ministries; retired former Managing Editor and Woman’s Editor of the New York Beacon News. Contact: misshazel@twc.com and online www.hazelrosettasmith.com]
