Here's a short thought before we head into Christmas. Or, if you are more on the secular side of things, another holiday. I couldn't find an appropriate picture I have taken recently to put here, so no eye candies.
This year's December has been a gloomy one. There was no hype at the stores. There were no members from the Salvation Army asking for donations. I'm not even sure if Christmas music was playing in the background.
I didn't go to church for the most part this year due to work and feeling like I shouldn't put others at risk. I work in a clinical lab after all. What doesn't kill me usually kills other people. There are a lot of older folks in my congregation anyhow. I felt fine watching the services online. It's not the same, though.
So much for trying to get back to church. That was one of my goals this year. Then, the pandemic hit. Everything got thrown out the window. I know one doesn't need organized religion to have spirituality. But, it's nice to return to the fold, on my own terms.
When I was at the store, everyone looked tired. Even the cashier let out an unenthusiastic "hey, how are you doing". This year has had a toll on a lot of people. The funny thing is, my state seems to be one of the better off ones in the US. I can't imagine how desolate and depressing things are elsewhere.
As the bagger finished putting my stuff in the cart, he looked up to me and said "Merry Christmas, sir!" Even behind the mask, I knew he was smiling. I replied, "you too" while attempting to show a smile behind the mask. He was the first person I've encountered that day that wished me happy holidays.
For whatever reason, when the rare holiday greeting hit, I felt like this .gif:
Is that a glimmer of hope? I don't know.
What I do know is that we are not out of the woods yet.
Stay safe folks. May you find peace in troubled times.