The powerful storms that streaked through Illinois in November destroyed hundreds of home and killed six people. Given the scale of the destruction in Washington, Illinois, it is amazing the death toll was not higher. Still, we remember that there are six families who will mourn one missing from their Christmas.
Amidst scenes of complete destruction, interviews with people who survived, finding shelter when the sirens sounded, said something like, “These things can be replaced, I am thankful my family is safe.”
It is the right thing to say, isn’t it? When family mementos are found in the Chicago suburbs that blew in from Washington, we preserve and post them because they are represent memories of people who are irreplaceable.
In this end-of-year holiday season, it is easy to be caught up in all the things that make up the celebration. We spend time getting ready for parties and gatherings, exhausted from shopping, wrapping, decorating and end-of-year reports. But this year, in Illinois especially, it is good to make a space to welcome the people close to us; to remember the people around the tree are more important than the presents under the tree. It is good to miss the people who will not be present this year and remember them when you are together.
It is good to tell the stories that make your family unique. This is the season to reconnect with those who matter to you.
The spiritually healthy person has a story to tell and finds the right people to share it with. Merry Christmas.
