Christmas in Twenty

The mantle on the fireplace, just above the Christmas stockings has five of the ever so popular seasonal postcards on it.

You know the postcards — with the storybook background of a bright blue sky, punched with fluffy white clouds, lush green landscape, and evergreen tree silhouettes, dusted with glistening snow in the expanse.

You see mothers, fathers, and children adorned with glowing smiles, full of holiday cheer, embracing their moment on the camera.

Happy Holidays or Merry Christmas or Season’s Greetings is inscribed in a script font on top of mistletoe.

Beautiful reminders of love, families, and reasons to be merry and bright.

But Christmas in 2020 for many, feels like an empty single shot to the heart.

A year ago, their family picture had another member.

Now there is an unfillable, gaping hole where their loved one should be standing and smiling.

As we celebrate the holiday season, let’s send a warm, loving embrace, call to check-in, and remember those who are left celebrating the memories of family members from Christmases past.

Though your heart may be weary this year, we honor you and cradle you in our thoughts. And remember — the spirit of your loved one's star is shining brighter from the skies above, for you — this Christmas.

Happy holidays, kind friends.

AJ