The Gift of Sensitivity

Christmas brings up all sorts of special memories. I remember as a kid making Gingerbread men cookies and leaving a few out for Santa Claus on Christmas Eve.  Santa must have liked them because they were always gone by Christmas morning.  I remember each year Daddy would bring home a live potted Christmas tree that would we plant in our field right after the holiday.  As a child, the anticipation and wonder of Christmas was magical.  I have many wonderful memories.

I also remember in later years having a hard time during some holidays.  For so many years, I was single and missed the joy of having a partner to celebrate the holidays with.  It was a discipline for me to focus on the true reason we celebrate Christmas, and not give in to comparison, jealousy or sadness for what I lacked. It reminds me that not everyone sees this time of year as joyful.

As we gear up for the holiday frenzy around us, maybe we could all give a gift that costs absolutely nothing.  The gift of sensitivity.  Take time to notice the people around you.  The lonely waiter.  The stressed out Macy's salesperson.  The person on the treadmill next to you.  Your friend that just got divorced.  An elderly widow.  Someone who can't make it home for the holidays. Take time to ask.  Take time to listen.  Invite someone for a meal.  Send a card.  Initiate a prayer.  Simple, low cost ways of loving those around us with sensitivity.

For those of you that struggle this Christmas, never forget the joy of why this season is so special.  It's not the glitter, gifts or even festive parties that are important.  It's the beauty of the birth of the baby Jesus in a manger longer time ago.  The simplicity of the baby Jesus, wrapped in hope for a dark world.  Peace. Hope. Love. Joy.  All available in Christ.  May God encourage you this season with new beginnings and new found hope.

For all of us, let's be quick to be sensitive to those around us at the holiday season.  You may not feel like you're that sensitive of a person, but give it a try.  You'll be surprised.  We have no clue what some might be facing, even though they "look" happy on the outside.  Take time to notice. Take time to care.  Go the extra mile.  Show love and compassion to those who are hurting.  Yes, this is the beauty of Christmas.  You may not even realize the difference you could make in someone else's life today.

Nancy Abbott is the Chaplain of the YMCA of Greater San Antonio.