We've never needed Christmas more than we do now.

We've never needed more,

than we do this very year,

of the jolly ole' fella in

the bright red suit

with his rosy pink cheeks,

oversized belly,

and eyes that smile.

We've never needed to believe in

miracles,

each other,

and the power of a

faith-filled,

compassionate,

empathetic,

inspired,

driven,

others-centered

and willing collective.

We've never needed joyous and moving music like we do this season.

We've never needed more a reason to celebrate

the blessings in our lives

and our health,

and the divine who and many other whos we have to thank for it.

With a pandemic lingering,

we’ve never needed Christmas more than we do now,

so take in all the lights,

cocktails,

food,

in-person or through-Zoom laughter of your loved ones,

and, of course, those stellar, pint-sized humans of yours,

and remember throughout these next few weeks to give yourself props for how you’ve taken on this year and grace for how you may imperfectly, but authentically, stumble through the rest of it.