Don’t Get So Frazzled That You Miss The Beauty of Christmas

I was racing out of the grocery store around 7 this morning when I looked up and saw one of the most beautiful sunrises I've seen in a while.

The sweet man helping me out with my groceries said, 'You need to stop and take a picture of that'.  He was so right.

We both stopped and took a picture and also took a moment to just soak in the beauty of that sunrise before we both went back to our hectic pace.

I know we are all busier than usual this time of year, but it will make a world of difference if you take a few minutes throughout the holiday to stop and soak in the beauty of our fabulous West Texas sunrises and sunsets, the joy on children's faces this time of year, the magical wonder of Christmas lights, especially if we get snow later this week.

In the hustle and bustle, I've also made myself take the time to make the parties I normally wouldn't have, to stop in and see elderly friends and slow down long enough to listen to them and give them several heart felt hugs.

I also have several friends battling severe illnesses and facing extreme surgeries this time of year and it really didn't take too long to put something cozy in the crock pot and run it by or to make that hospital visit.

When you think about it, that's the real beauty of Christmas.  It's in the love we share and extend to our families, friends, loved ones and strangers.  This time of year, especially, people need to know that they are loved and valued.  I know we all have friends or know of people who are experiencing the first Christmas after losing a loved one, whether it's a spouse, parent or even a child.  Take time to let them know that you care and that you are thinking of them and that it's not lost on you or us what they are going through.

The real beauty of Christmas is in the little things and the big things that make our hearts swell and bring joy to us and others.