Finding Holiday Glimmers

I don’t know about you, but I often find myself frustrated by the holiday season. The commercialization of Christmas can obliterate its deeper meaning. But I have learned to look for special moments that my therapist calls glimmers.  

A glimmer is something special that pops up amid everyday life, moments that bring pause and a sense of awe. They can happen at any time, not just at Christmas, but maybe I appreciate them more this time of year. 

We have a family tradition of cutting our own Christmas trees which goes back to when we lived in Pike. Many years ago, I planted 100 seedlings in the field behind our house. We eventually sold a few but, when we lived overseas for 12 years, the remaining trees grew very tall. The tradition became topping large trees which could be challenging (and even dangerous at times) for my son Luke. 

Since moving to West Lebanon, the tradition has continued at a commercial tree farm -- not as exciting but still special. It is on me to set up the tree my wife and I selected which is much smaller than the one Luke cut for his house! I placed the lights and ornaments, including the clever creations of my wife’s deceased uncle. 

That evening, I sat on the couch and looked at the pretty tree aglow. That is when the glimmer occurred, a brief moment amid this busy holiday season to sit in awe, reminding me how special life can be. 

I hope you can enjoy some glimmer moments, and Happy New Year! 

We each have an extraordinary opportunity to make a difference in people’s lives. Don’t underestimate your impact!