The Free Gift
A Short Holiday Message
We have far less time on this beautiful, green planet than we ever imagine, and as the new year approaches with thoughts of much-needed resolutions, I’d like to say just one thing:
From now on, I will have no regrets. Whatever wrongs I’ve done in the past, I will accept as a part of learning and being human. I’ll make amends where I can, and just let the rest go.
I’d like to say that, but it’s not so easy. Voices in my head continue to yammer on: “Why did you do that? How could you have forgotten? Why didn’t you help? What were you thinking?” A never-ending narrative of nagging self-blame.
I am thankful, though, that it’s not too late to atone for some of my mistakes. I still owe a few apologies to people in my life - but I am catching up! The sorry thing, though, and the hardest to live with, is when it is too late to make amends. For example, my mother died six years ago … and I want her back! We have unfinished business. She told me so many stories about her life, yet there are blank spaces that I want filled in, and now she is gone, and I’ll never know.
I write this during the holidays, not to wallow, no, but to inspire! There are people in our lives who would love a hug from us, a kind word, an apology, a show of interest, an explanation. And, if people you care about are still alive, the time to ask questions, to make amends or to express your feelings, is right now. Isn’t it?
If you are getting together over the holidays, I suggest that it may be the perfect time to talk to your siblings, your children, or your old ones about things that are real, things that matter. Listen to them, ask them for stories. Tell them what you love about them, and say you’re sorry, if you need to. It is the kind of wonderful, freeing gift we all need.
To the readers of 🍁Leaves in 38 states and 26 countries, I wish the happiest of holidays to you, and to all those who love you, out there wherever you may be! Sharron in Santa Cruz.
A very nice gift, Sharron, to yourself and others. Thank you, and Merry Christmas! My family and I are separated by distance but not love. I started my Storyletter as a way to fill in the gaps in the story of what my family knows of me.
Hi Sharron,
This is wonderful, as always!! Thank you for the reminder, reasons why and examples how to do it!! So simple as it always is, but always clear, good and important!! I send love & appreciation to you! Cathy from Santa Cruz, living in Northern New Jersey now.