Last year around this time I started the Share the Love project. I wanted to love on people a little bit and was hopeful that others would feel led to do the same. I’ll be honest, that project didn’t spread like wildfire like I’d hoped. In the midst of putting together packages to send out to people there were even a few moments I almost decided to not do it all. I felt like no one was quite as excited as I was about it or jumping on board with the idea. I had make a commitment to myself though to send out at least 10 share the love packages to friends all around. So, I stuck with it and in the end I think I was the one that was encouraged the most. If only one person felt extra loved then the project was worth every minute of my time.
As much as this time of year can be such an exciting time, for many it can be a very sad and lonely time of the year. For many it’s a reminder of so many things that bring sadness instead of joy, the real reason for the season. The truth is that people are hurting all around us for one reason or another. We forget sometimes what this time of year means; what it stands for. We get caught up in the busyness of it. We get stressed out searching for the perfect gift, attending every holiday party, racing to each family member’s dinners that we lose sight of what it’s really all about…sharing the love.
I won’t be sending out packages like I did last year but I do want to be intentional about how I can share a little extra love with people throughout this next month. I hope that together we can be mindful of the people around us and be thoughtful in showing people an extra ounce of love. We never know who might need it and I can promise you that you will be the one encouraged from it in the end.
“I’m gonna make a wish this Christmas
I’m gonna say a little prayer
I’m gonna stop here for a moment
Before the moment disappears
The world’s in a hurry this December
City streets and shopping malls
I wish we could slow down and remember
The meaning of it all
Wherever you are, no matter how far
Come back to the heart, the heart of Christmas
Live while you can, cherish the moment
The ones that you love, make sure they know it
Don’t miss it, the heart of Christmas”
*Lyrics from The Heart of Christmas by Matthew West
Keep shining,
A. Flavio 🙂
FlavioApril 