Refocus and Refuel

Be strong, and let your heart take courage, all you who wait for the Lord!

Psalm 31:24

Nicole stopped by her Aunt Carrie’s house to drop off a few pies her aunt asked her to bake for a Christmas get-together with friends. She let herself in, carried the pies into the house and placed them on the bar. “Aunt Carrie, I’m here,” she called.

“I’ll be right there, honey,” her aunt called from the back of the house.

After greeting one another with hugs, Carrie noticed Nicole wasn’t her typical cheery self. “Why are you down today?”

“I’m sorry. I shouldn’t be upset,” Nicole said. “We didn’t have any plans, but I’m just really disappointed that neither of my boys are coming home with their families for the holidays. I honestly don’t think they ever planned to come this year but didn’t have the heart to tell me.”

Carrie smiled. “You know, my kids and grand-kids don’t always come home for the holidays. At first it was really hard for me. Christmas is my favorite season. I admit, it’s just different without family to celebrate with, but I’ve learned to manage my expectations. Instead of feeling disappointed, I am determined to make the best of whatever time we have together.”

“So, that’s why you have Christmas in July, and open presents at Thanksgiving?” Nicole smiled.

“Yes, every moment is a gift. I’m determined to enjoy the moments we have.”

Today’s One Thing

Take courage and determine to take what has defeated you fuel you.

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