Christmas...

...is coming.

It's coming whether we like it or not.
Normally this time of year brings about stress, feelings of resentment, anger, and a general "bah, humbug!" attitude out of me.

The shopping, the planning, the decorating, the baking, the logistics of who to see and when, the pressure from those closest to us to see them more and the impending guilt that goes along with that. I CAN DO WITHOUT ALL OF THAT!

However,

this year is different.

We're barely into December and the decorating is done, the baking is mostly complete, the annual Christmas photo is prepared and on it's way to many, many recipients, the Christmas music has been playing since November 25th but most of all....

I've been craving the peace that Christmas represents, the intimacy with my creator. 

I've had Josh Groban's version of "Silent Night" playing on repeat quite often. It's my favorite Christmas carol.

The lyrics in that song speak to me. I'm able to envision myself on this amazing night, one like no other for this young couple in a filthy animal dwelling. The calm that came over them after the agonizing birth of bringing a baby into the world. Imagine the the first moments of bonding between Mary and her newborn as she holds this miraculous marvel in her arms.

This child we celebrate...

He then grew up into a man....

Silent night, holy night
All is calm, all is bright
Round yon Virgin Mother and Child
Holy Infant so tender and mild
Sleep in heavenly peace
Sleep in heavenly peace

Silent night, holy night!
Shepherds quake at the sight
Glories stream from heaven afar
Heavenly hosts sing Alleluia!
Christ, the Saviour is born
Christ, the Saviour is born

Silent night, holy night
Son of God, love's pure light
Radiant beams from Thy holy face
With the dawn of redeeming grace
Jesus, Lord, at Thy birth
Jesus, Lord, at Thy birth "