Oh, where do I even begin? The holidays were a whirlwind of emotions, laughter, and love. Returning home after so long was a decision filled with intention and boy, am I glad I made it. This Christmas was special — the first one back since I moved away. It meant something to me, and I was determined to be present and soak in every moment.
Both sides of my family brought their unique traditions and warmth. Christmas Eve with my mom’s side was a nostalgic journey. We gathered, just like we’ve been doing for as long as I can remember. The new babies running around brought a sense of continuity, a reminder of the passage of time. I could almost hear my grandmother’s voice warning us about running through the house, a mix of sternness and love.
Conversations with aunts, uncles, and cousins flowed freely, unrestricted by the constraints of childhood. We laughed and chatted about anything and everything — the freedom of adulthood is a beautiful thing.
Christmas Day belonged to Dad’s side. The morning was filled with the joy of opening gifts, making brunch, and the sound of laughter and love. It was a reminder that, above all, family is everything.
Brunch with the girls was a time! The drinks, conversations, and laughter were all so liberating. Abundance was a topic that resonated, and witnessing the hope and joy in my friends’ eyes as they spoke about their aspirations for 2024 filled my heart with joy.
Friendships, like all things, have seasons. The importance of authenticity and honesty in navigating these seasons became evident. We’re friends navigating life, holding each other accountable, and cherishing the truest essence of sisterhood.
Even the work part of the trip was a pleasant surprise. Seeing my team and coworkers in person after so long felt rejuvenating. The holiday party, which I planned, was a success. Brunch with the team was a delight.
Yet, amidst all these beautiful moments, my most significant takeaway was the newfound ability to feel. For the first time in a long while, I felt the love of others. Their acknowledgments of my glow, growth, energy, spirit, success, and accomplishments resonated deeply. It was like seeing myself through their eyes, and for the first time, I truly saw it, too.
But to be honest, as much as the praises warmed my heart, they also stirred memories of a past where I operated from a space of anger and defensiveness. The wall I built to protect myself had served its purpose, but it’s time to chip away at it. It’s time to confront the emotions I once struggled to handle — the anger, the abandonment issues, the numbness.
So here I am, sitting in the warmth of love and self-recognition, grateful for the holidays that brought beautiful memories and revelations about my family and a deeper understanding and acceptance of myself.
A great way to close out the year and start a new one!
