One of my most favorite things about this time of the year is the Christmas tree. As you know I love the forest and it feels like a privilege to bring a small part of the forest into my living room each December. I love getting up a little earlier each morning to sit by the tree in peace and quiet. My mind wanders as I gaze at the sparkling white lights that shimmer like diamonds to all the ornaments that remind me of fond memories of my childhood, as a young adult and now a mother. It's a scrapbook of my life...sheep, knitting, bicycles, motorcycles, soccer balls, pointe shoes, basketball players, stars, countless Nutcrackers and those I collected as a youngster.
I've tried taking photos of the tree to capture the beauty but I've yet to do the tree justice. Then again maybe it is only beautiful to me.
“Beauty is in the eye of the beholder.”
According to this proverb beauty cannot be judged objectively, for what one person finds beautiful may not appeal to others. So the images of my tree will have to remain as a description. I have, however created a doodle of a tree that captures my thoughts and emotions regarding Christmas trees.
Now this talk of trees and beauty brings me to a recent event that occurred on the internet. I became aware of this situation because my secret Santa gifted me some delicious Reese's peanut butter trees. She knows that I love the forest so the delectable treats were a thoughtful gift to remind me of one of my favorite places. So, the Reese's trees don't really look like trees but rather like blobs. People started shaming the trees on social media for not looking the way they should.
Hershey's response was genius. All trees are beautiful.
This time of year can be challenging when it comes to maintaining a positive image of self. There are treats everywhere...work, home, parties, get-togethers with friends, etc. So, let's take a lesson from the trees, even the chocolate ones. When you look in the mirror, see the beautiful you. No negative self-talk!
Peace be with you in these final dark days. Just a few more days and we'll be gaining more light with each day as well as vitamin D .