Yesterday, Brit was “decking the halls.” She was joyful and full of glee and I think that expresses this year’s holiday theme. Joyful and Gleeful! According to the Oxford Dictionary, Joyful is “feeling, expressing or causing great pleasure and happiness.” Gleeful is “exuberantly or triumphantly joyful.”
We have so much to be joyful about, like the weather. It is sunny and warm in December so we can be outside and enjoy our westside courtyard, or walk in the neighborhood, or have activities in our beautiful chapel. We have all our basic needs met which allows us to ask for more. More friends, more time with loved ones, and more fun.
We can be “exuberant and triumphant” too because, with collaboration and effort, we moved out all the people and stuff to westside so the renovations could begin. This was no easy task, and every resident and staff member at St Luke’s Home participated in big ways. I have so much respect for the “attitude of gratitude” that permeated the air. At the end of every difficult conversation was laughter and appreciation for the fact that, by 2024, we will have a fully renovated home. So, my recommendation for the holidays is to be good to yourself, set realistic expectations, and be Joyful and Gleeful. I wish you and your loved ones a safe and happy holiday!
