JOY

On November 1, 2021, I set up my Christmas tree with its twinkling led lights. I sat down on the couch in the dark, with a cup of coffee, a fuzzy blanket, and a book. For a few minutes, I felt calm, cool, and collected. I had been counting down the days after I made a deal with my husband about setting it up after Halloween. I made sure to put it in my calendar, and it was the only Monday since the semester started that I was able to come home after work without stopping and not log into a class.

I took a picture of my twinkling tree and put it on my social media pages because it makes me happy and brings me joy.

I knew there were people who thought this was ridiculous, and who would be making comments about it being too early.

Here’s the thing.

I know what brings me joy.

I know when I get into a place where I am struggling on any level, that there are certain things I can count on to lift my spirits. I also believe this is not up to anyone else. It is my responsibility to look out for my own physical, mental, and spiritual health.

Not one of the people who had negative things to say is doing anything to bring me joy, in any fashion. Not one of their comments is helpful.

 None of them oversees my joy, happiness, or contentment.

And I am okay with it.

I am okay with knowing what brings me joy is my thing.

 I am okay with everyone being on different pages where this Christmas tree and decorating business goes. Do you wait until after Thanksgiving? That’s cool. Do you wait until Dec. 1? That’s awesome, I appreciate the tradition. Do you wait until Christmas week? Alright, if that’s your thing.

My joy is not dependent on other people’s opinions. I’m not inviting people over to critique my choice. I’m not sharing my joy to invite criticism. I shared my picture because I was joyful, and I was hoping to bring some joy into the hearts of others if they should allow it.

I am old enough to know where I stand matters only to me. I am also okay with it.

This Christmas season, do what brings you joy.

Walk through the displays at the megastore. Buy that nativity you’ve been eyeing for years. Color coordinate your tree this year. Put up all the lights on all the buildings and call it Christmas. Go see the local light displays early, play Christmas carols, wear the ugly Christmas sweater.

My ultimate joy is derived from knowing all these seasonal things lead me to the cross, a lifetime journey that I have been focused on for a long time. And knowing that because of Jesus’ birth and his journey, I have the freedom to be joyful on my terms, without regret, remorse, approval, or calendar.

XOXO

Merry Christmas