Christmas is about here. I currently have one room of my house dedicated to presents, some wrapped, some unwrapped because I don’t want the cat to chew off the ribbons nor the dog to chew up the smart wool socks. (I have had to retrieve one pair from Sophie Joy already.) But that will change very soon, I am getting things ready for our girls and their families to arrive.
I delight… and if I am totally honest, have a bit of trepidation how these few days of togetherness will go as my house stretches to accommodate 10 people, seven dogs and one cat. There will be no “room” at the house to call one’s own, everything will be shared. Bedroom space, floor space, bathroom space. It is as if we are part of some microcosm of the world trying to figure out how to live together.
So, I am trying something new this year, I think I will focus on those moments when 2 or 3 are gathered together; In the kitchen as we wait for the coffee to be ready in the morning, or on the bathroom floor. (Don’t ask me why my girls have always found the bathroom, heater on, door closed as their sanctuary for serious conversation, but they have. Throw in a few dogs and they have found a slice of heaven on earth.)
Christmas is not about physical space. The story of Jesus’ birth gives 1/2 of one sentence to the fact that there was not enough room in the expected places. It is full of amazement, wonder, joy, and rejoicing. Those are matters of heart. So, if I am going to be territorial this Christmas, there is not enough room.
I am going to remember, that territory is not the only room I need to be concerned about. Because my heart will expand to hold 10 people, 7 dogs,1 cat and a whole lot of love all at the same time.
May your heart be full, but always with room for one more this Christmas,
Mother Elizabeth
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