I can still remember last Christmas. Not too much because of what I got, but because of how we celebrated it. It all seems so normal, a (fairly) big tree, lit candels, the family sitting in the living room, eating Raclette... I even remember how my Dad had one of my Mum's rings fixed and taped onto a hairdryer he got her for Christmas, because if fit there so perfecty... random.
One year passed. A lot of things happened.
Now we're here again, it's Christmas. But everything is different. Dad is in a wheelchair and there's a bed in our living room, because he can't walk stairs properly yet. There's a mini Christmas tree with only three candels. We won't be able to sit in the living room together and Dad won't give out funny presents like he did when he gave my brother a fake banana to get over his banana phobia.
Still, I'm fine with that, as we probably have been gifted with the greatest present ever - the gift of life. It's something we tend to forget and it makes me sad sometimes. Despite of all the pain, anger and fear we have felt and still feel occasionally, we have to keep in mind that we are still in this together, that there is something worth fighting for. It's love.
So even if you're scared of being hurt, disappointed or rejected, there is nothing wrong with telling a special person that you love them. I encourage you to do that. You might be surprised. And you might be glad you did, even if it didn't turn out the way you wished for.
I didn't wish for a lot this year or this Christmas. However, I was given more than I had ever expected. I feel blessed about being loved.
Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year, everyone! Let's reach out and make it the best day ever, the best Christmas ever.
In love and gratitude,
Antonia
PS: Even a crooked tree is a beautiful tree.
