Christmas Thoughts

To begin with, a disclaimer . . . I had a very long day at work and I had a glass of wine with dinner, so I’m a bit tiddly, not quite typing straight and feeling oddly mellow. And I’m rambling and blathering on.

I have so much to be thankful for this Christmas. I’m incredibly thankful for S and the wonderful relationship we have. I’m thankful for the bits of my brain which know how to get distinctions at university – damned if I know how they do it, but I’m grateful nonetheless. I’m thankful for my lovely family, particularly including my supportive mother, my awesome sister and my gorgeous cat. I’m thankful for my friends, through whom I learn so much, and who also have been incredibly supportive this year (I particularly have to mention Siri and Tassiegirl who always have something kind to say when I’m in need; and Sonia and Matthew, who have been a much-needed source of sanity in my life). I’m thankful for the ways in which my life is coming together and heading in the direction I want it to go. I’m thankful for my faith, which I find growing stronger and more peaceful as I settle in to a more stable frame of mind. I’m thankful for my sense of humour, which keeps me going. I’m thankful for life, the universe and everything :-)

"Loving Father,
Help us remember the birth of Jesus,
that we may share in the song of the angels,
the gladness of the shepherds,
and worship of the wise men.

Close the door of hate
and open the door of love all over the world.
Let kindness come with every gift
and good desires with every greeting."
Deliver us from evil by the blessing
which Christ brings,
and teach us to be merry with clear hearts.

May the Christmas morning
make us happy to be thy children,
and Christmas evening bring us to our beds
with grateful thoughts,
forgiving and forgiven,
for Jesus' sake.

Amen."

Robert Louis Stevenson