My sweet mother liked to collect a variety of things. She had acquired four sets of these little collectible fruit ornaments. They are the Del Monte Christmas Yumkins. She'd given one set to my sister - but there were three sets still left - we assume for her other three children.
I brought a set home and put them on my tree. I adore them on my tree for so many reasons. First of all they are fun and playful - their little eyes look out at you from their branches and you just can't help but smile. Most of all I love them on my tree because I see them and I think about my dear mother. Though it is mixed with sorrow -these silly little stuffed fruits bring me into remembering the fun I had with my mom. They're a reminder of what attracted her and what delighted her.
If there is sorrow in your life - and it seems I've encountered many this year with heavy hearts my only advice is to allow yourself to BE - don't struggle against it. Be gentle with where you are at - be gentle with yourself. That is my approach to daily living right now. I cherish the little things that are sparks of fun and at the same time I have a finer appreciation for the bittersweet.
In what ever way you celebrate the year's end and connect with the sacredness of being alive I wish you all blessings and peace.
