Christmas is upon us. You have all the great songs, Jingle Bells, It's the Most Wonderful Time of the Year, etc. Christmas can be a hard time for so many. There is too much stuff to do, lots of stress. And the stores are a crowded mess.

We all try to be happy and jolly and cheerful for Christmas, but that is hard to do for people suffering depression, illness, financial trouble, or for anyone who has lost a loved one during the year.

The first year after my mom passed away I really did not want to celebrate Christmas but I did anyway for my children and family. Everything about Christmas reminded me of my mother who was no longer with me. I decided that rather than focus on the party and commercial aspect of Christmas I would meditate on the gift of the Christ child to earth.

I would like to send love, and a special Christmas prayer and Christmas wish for everyone having a difficult time during the holidays.