Christmas is special. It is a time full of light, spirit, memories, moments and purpose. Often, we get caught up in the hustle and the bustle and miss the true goodness of this season.

I’m reminded of the lyrics of a Christmas classic, “Silent Night, Holy Night. All is calm, all is bright. Round yon virgin, mother and child. Holy infant so tender and mild. Sleep in Heavenly peace, sleep in Heavenly peace.”

The night was silent. All was truly calm. Sleep was Heavenly and peaceful.

Each year when putting up my Christmas tree, I am reminded of some of my greatest memories. Clif and I got married in December and as a part of our wedding celebration we asked our guests to bring one ornament with them to help decorate our first tree. Each year I pull out ornaments from that beautiful ceremony. Some made by their children. Some still with the note they put with the ornament. Others remind me of other special occasions like when our baby girl was born or when we took a step of faith with an ornament for our baby boy before he was “officially” ours. To all of the ornaments picked up along the way in Romania, Jamaica, Indonesia and of course Israel.

Christmas brings about tradition. And hope. This Christmas, I hope you and your family can remember to slow down the pace and embrace the absolute goodness of all that this season celebrates. Tonight, sleep peaceful. Bask in the gratitude.

The night was silent. All was truly calm. Sleep was Heavenly and peaceful.