although it’s been said many times, many ways

You are being herded through the isles of a crowded department store (it doesn’t matter which one-pick your favorite or least favorite) with music blaring from loud speakers above. This is the 2nd time you have heard Blue Christmas-scratch that-the third time you have heard Blue Christmas since you walked through the garland trimmed doors early this morning. You are itchy and beginning to feel a little damp. Not from the cold, dreary drizzle outside but from the fact that its about 85 inside this damn building and you are still wearing the hideous hand knitted maroon sweater Aunt Bitsy so thoughtfully gave you last year. And why are you here, enduring this hell of red and green and stressed-out-coupon-clipping moms? Oh. Well, um, Little Billy wants a new video game and Suzie really needs a new Christmas dress. =D

Ho. Ho. Ho. (ho.ho.ho. my ass)

We all know the Christmas spirit is few and far between these days, especially in the isles between the red dot sales and the super-duper-clearance racks. Everyone is trying to stretch a dollar forty different ways, attempting to make everyone happy with much, much less than years before.

Working in retail this holiday season I was prepared for the worst. I was ready to feel the brunt of the angry mom storm. I had my armor up and my shields prepared, ready for whatever profanities and insults they were armed with.

Of course there were a few tantrums thrown and a few f-bombs dropped. But surprisingly the rush of ba-humbug never came. In fact, quite the opposite was found everywhere I happened to traverse this Christmas season.

A smile and a sincere apology seemed to placate any and all rumpled feathers. A simple “Merry Christmas” enough to warm up the frosty hearts of grumpy men missing football to take family portraits or exhausted mom’s with crying babies in their arms.

On a side note, in this day and age, I always feel a bit awkward saying “Merry Christmas.” To me, regardless of your beliefs or background it is a greeting or salutation simply meant to convey a sense of cheer or glad-tidings. And yet, even as it leaves my lips, I’m always afraid I will offend someone. I say it sincerely and without an ulterior motive but often the important thing is not what is meant, rather what is perceived. Nine times out of ten, I get a “merry christmas” in reply, or if nothing else a quiet smile. That’s good enough for me.

For now, I’ll continue with my “Merry Christmas” and my holiday cheer. For I love this time of year, the chilly weather perfect for sweaters and snuggling up under quilts. Warm coffee and hot cocca. Twinkling lights and bright colors. Quiet time for reflection and thoughtful prayer. Remembering who you are and where you have come from this past year. Planning for the future. Expecting and excitement.

although it’s been said many times, many ways
merry christmas, to you.

expectation

The best part is that moment right before it happens.

In an instant, time pauses. In the briefest moment possible, in the slightest hesitation, the world gently slows. Perhaps here there is some drama, much like in chic flicks and romance movies shown on late night television, preying on hopeless romantics and lonely housewives. Over there, worlds and miles away there is no allure, simply teenage-like awkwardness. Whatever the circumstance, that moment, just before lips join, as two separate breaths meet, linger and intertwine, time is lulled into belief for the briefest of instants.

The best part is that moment, right before the kiss.