The Holidays and Tears

On Sunday, our church choir and an orchestra filled an entire service with Christmas carols.  As they sang songs that I cherish, I was hit with a sudden realization that there are parts of the world where people are not allowed to sing those songs, or to come together and hear them.  …I choked, I tried to clear my throat, I fought tears and then I cried.  (Partially because I was so overwhelmed with thankfulness for what I have and partially because I was so overwhelmed with grief about what others don’t have.)

Monday I read a blog post by Dan McCarthy about crying in the workplace and was reminded that tears are a human condition and immediately felt thankful for his insights.

Wednesday I visited with a single mom that recently had her car break-down.  It is her only mode of transportation and she needs it to get from her home to work.  It is Christmas and she wants to be able to provide a special season for her son.  …And she cried.

Later in the day I visited with someone that has been EXTREMELY busy caring for others for months, someone who is worn out and suddenly faced with several additional life-altering situations.  ...And she cried.

Tonight as I am thinking about how much I love the lights, the sounds, and the smells of the Christmas season, I am also thinking of three families that have lost loved ones this year, of single moms that can’t afford the basics, and of people that don’t have the freedom to choose how they celebrate Christmas.

And I’m wondering…   What can I do to make a difference for those that are struggling?  ….And how can I remember to pause and really SAVOR all that I have?

How about you?  ...What brings you to tears this season?  Is there someone in your life that needs you right now?  Are there blessings in your life that you've been taking for granted?  What are you going to do about it?

Photo credit: istockphoto