Another Edition of Unsolicited Advice from Miss C,
I recently saw a Facebook post that screamed, “ONLY 3 MORE PAYCHECKS UNTIL CHRISTMAS!” I admit, I panicked. Every year, the holidays seem to just jump up on me, and when I realize just how much…the stress hits. For those of you who know me outside of this column, you know that I am very anti-drama. I avoid it at all costs. My avoidance is not because I don’t care, but because I am empathetic and your pain hurts me because many times I cannot fix it. So, during the holidays, your stress stresses me. I want to fix it…I want everyone to just share in the joy of the season, not fall victim to the stress which buries the joy. And that is the reason for this unsolicited edition of Ask Me Miss C.
This week I enjoyed lunch with a friend and a young girl who she mentors. Let’s call this girl Sally. Sally’s story broke my heart. She recently lost her mother. Her mother was a victim of domestic violence, and as a result her biological father (with whom she has previously had restricted contact) is in prison. Sally is now living with her 92 year old grandmother, unemployed aunt and her four children. Money is hard to come by. She never has the latest clothes, toys, or electronic gadgets. Sometimes it is hard to put food on the table. She has every reason to be sad and downcast, but Sally is made of pure joy. She has a ready smile and a kind word for everyone. When asked if she was looking forward to the holidays, she said she has been busy writing stories that she plans to give as gifts to her family. She is very excited to wrap and share her stories. My friend asked her what she wanted for Christmas, and Sally said she wanted only things that she can give and donate to others. I was a little surprised, what 12 year old girl doesn’t want the latest and greatest as gifts? I learned that last year, Sally was given a new scarf, boots, and a video game…all of which she turned around and donated to homeless families. I told Sally that SHE is the true gift. Her heart is a gift, a blessing to everyone she meets, and she puts a lot of things into perspective. When you are rushing around to decorate, attend gatherings, shop, etc…remember that the true joy of the season is the love and giving. Sally personifies the season of giving. We should all take a moment and follow her example.
Blessings,
—Miss C
