This is a different kind of blog on this beautiful Christmas Eve, I’m doing something I’ve never done before- spending Christmas Eve alone. The kids are spending the holiday with the other side of the family, my husband is flying, and the other family that was coming canceled at the last moment for health reasons. And you know what? It’s still a beautiful evening.
I’ve had invitations to join friends, but I’m choosing to stay in, hang with Koda, and be reflective of the beauty on the season. Tonight is such a magical night filled with possibility. Not only is it Christmas Eve, but it’s also Hanukkah at the same time. That only happens every 4-5 years, so that makes tonight very special indeed.
I’m listening to Christmas carols recorded by my daughter Carly and feeling very sentimental, for my life is so full of blessing. Not only do I have the two greatest kids, but they’ve each found the perfect partners, giving me four amazing gifts in my life.
My husband Darryl is the best Christmas present ever! He proposed to me last year at this time, we married in April, and I’ve never been happier. He’s my perfect partner in crime. Who else would fly around the world with me on our Global Hug Tour? That takes a very special guy indeed to not think I’m crazy!
I’m also blessed with one of the largest extended families ever. From my birth family to my global InspireMeToday family, I am profoundly grateful for you in my life- tonight and always. You rock my world. You embrace my dreams and make them your own. You make me smile and fill the world with joy. I am so grateful for each of you!
So on this beautiful Christmas Eve, I’d like to share the gift of the season with you- love.
May you be surrounded by those you love and make the time to build memories that will last a lifetime. May your heart overflow with joy and laughter. Go hug someone near you and tell them how much they mean to you. Then do it again with someone else. Share the love tonight and capture the energy of this incredible night.
Remember the Divine being that you are and the possibility that lives within.
With love and the warmest wishes for a very Merry Christmas, Happy Hanukkah, Happy Kwanzaa and blessings for whatever you are celebrating tonight. I wish you love and everything you’ve ever dreamed of, tonight and always.
My Christmas present to you is here. Turn down the lights, light a candle, turn up your speakers, close your eyes and just listen. Soak it in. I hope it touches your heart as you have touched mine.
Love and hugs,
Gail
There may be typos in this message as the tears make it hard to see the keyboard. Carly’s rendition of Silent Night is probably as close as most of us will come to hearing an angel in this life. It has had the most extraordinarily profound effect on me and I am literally weeping copiously with a mixture of joy and sorrow – it is a wonderful experience to have at a time of the year when so many will not have time to catch their breath as they rush from one gathering to another and extend their hospitality to family, friends and neighbours.
Listening to that pure, sweet and simple rendition of a carol that is familiar to people the world over, I found myself seeing all those with whom I have shared Christmas over more than half a century, many of whom are long since gone, my parents, aunts and uncles, friends and acquaintances and others whom I have not seen in many a year and may not see again. I saw all those who are alive and well and dear to me but far away and those equally dear and closer to hand. I found myself filled with gratitude and appreciation for all that I have been, and am, so fortunate to enjoy.
Thank you so much.
Dear Linnet,
Your comment brought tears to my eyes. I’m happy that you enjoyed the song. Carly’s voice has brought tears to my eyes and has given me goosebumps since she was a little girl. She has been referred to as “the voice of an angel” many times. I promise to share your beautiful comments with Carly too.
I think this rendition has the effect it does because of the simplicity of the production. Still gives me chills!
You’re right- in this time of rushing and planning, it’s a git we give ourselves to just be still. I love that this song brought back such warm memories for you.
We’re fortunate to have you as a member of our InspireMeToday family. Many blessings to you and yours this beautiful holiday season! Thank you again for sharing your loving comments.
Big hugs,
Gail
Beautiful post, Gail!! Thanks for sharing with me on Twitter. I was moved to tears by your heartfelt sharing and the stunning sound of your daughter’s singing. Wowee, such talent!!! You must be so proud.
Keep up the great inspirational work you do. I can hardly wait to follow the journey of your 100,000 hugs in ’09. You go gal!
Hugs,
@marismith
Beautiful!!
When i see the world through your eyes there is clarity. I see the abundance of love all around me and i remember to put into practice ‘the law of attraction’….
Thank you
xx