Remember the Forgotten

The season approaches, Speeding toward us on arctic zephyrs, but the coldness is more than air it seeps under the skin where loneliness begins. Is there any other day where solitude's talons rake, mutilating peace of mind, quite so much as Christmastide. Every commercial, acid sweet, pouring depression over wounded souls, digs it way to the past. Memories of brighter days faintly gleam in the background. The twinkle of lights are only merry when shared. Lumps of coal bitterness are all that remain; Hard Candy Christmas without the sweet-- Not even an orange seed. Ask Ebeneezer, he will tell you Bah and Hum Bug feelings are all there are. Until kindness reaches out, Memories are no chrism for loneliness--for onliness. Solo flights over Christmas lights No protective V to shelter no tandem lift for spirits even in a bottle; just wings ever weakening; Lifeforce ever shrinking on this journey to the end. One invitation-- one empathetic heart in the true spirit to celebrate en mass for Christ; hands extended heart open turn gleaming tears to smiles of gratitude. Forget the gifts except those God-given it is they that open the Kingdom of Heaven "Inasmuch as ye have done to the least of these my brethren, ye have done unto me."* So open wide the doors, invite the lonely in, add a plate to the table shared with kith and kin. Embrace the coldness of an empty heart to fill it with riches as you let them be a part of a family again, if only for a while. Remember that neighbor who sits on his own, great uncle dan eating crackers and microwave meals, or even the couple who just moved in or the old sad lady who lives next to them. Christmastime can glitter and be the darkest blue. It's hues and lightness vary, impacted and changed by you. Don't know one with this face? Open your eyes, but peer with your heart. If someone comes to mind, beckon them, Come! It's a place to begin. * Matthew 25:40