Week 91: Warm Memories
And continuing new traditions…
Each Sunday, my wife and I cook and eat a meal together — intentionally. Every Friday, I’ll be sharing our experience here in this space. I want to see the growth that will come in our marriage because of this. I hope you enjoy our story. You can find last week’s post here.
What is it that we love so much about the holidays? Family time, warm and cozy interiors that shield us from the cold outside, music and presents, traditions, religious gatherings — all are certainly pieces of the puzzle. For me, it’s certainly family time. But even more than that, I think it’s the element of a special reminder that is specific to the holiday season.
It’s the reminder that — amid all the busy times of life — it’s the simple moments that stand out.
I was reminded of that again on this November Sunday, as Sarah and I renewed one of our favorite traditions — decorating our Christmas tree. Full disclosure: we had already put up the tree and decorated some of it earlier in the month. But we left most of the ornaments for after Thanksgiving.
We laid out all our ornaments (a surprisingly large number) on our living room table and started placing them. You know we had some Christmas music jammin’ too! As soon as Thanksgiving is over, I’ll go all out for Christmas — count me in!
As I put up some of the ornaments, associated memories came back to my head. Like our Chicago Cubs 2016 World Series Championship ornament — yeah, that one brings back some good memories! Or our “first married Christmas” ornament with a bride and groom — that one brings back even BETTER memories! Many of the ornaments had special events or milestones associated with them. They act as signposts in this season of joy and togetherness, invitations to remember. Remember what, you ask?
That simple moments are important.
It’s what we always say here, right. It’s important to enjoy simple moments with those you love. What’s the big deal about decorating a tree? It’s a beautiful tradition that Sarah and I share. It’s something we look forward to — a sign of the season.
Soon, the tree was all decorated. Each ornament was in its place. Now, as I sit here writing with the glow from the lights on that very same tree filling the room around me, I remember. I remember the joy. I remember some of the pain, too. More than anything, I remember that this life I have is worth a great deal. It’s special. There are many days that don’t seem all that special. They seem simple. But if there’s one thing I’ve learned…
…it’s that simple is pretty special.
Happy Holidays, friends! May you share beautiful moments of simplistic joy with those you love. May you remember that you matter, and you’re worth it. Wishing you all the best as you enjoy simple moments with your loved ones this holiday season.
