I'm home! Yesterday was my travel day. I flew home, and although Virgin America is offering free wifi on all flights until January 2, my bag was so full and my flight was so short, I didn't want to drag my laptop out. It was nice though, cause I caught up on reading and some personal writing. My writing consists mainly of connecting with my thoughts and ideas. It was a really soothing flight, as a result. Then I touched down and things got hectic. I went out to eat with my girl to fill our stomachs for the drinking we were going to do later, and then I came home to unpack and get ready for the night. I had a really nice time. I only got moderately typsy, and then afterward we headed to an after-hours spot for food. When I got home, I got a text from a friend, and a family member of theirs has died. My friend is extremely family-oriented, so this is devastating.
I got to thinking about the holidays, family and friends, and then this morning my girl and I were talking about meeting up with some other friends of ours for Christmas Eve, and the next comment out of her mouth was, "So what do you want for Christmas?!" Easy. I just want her. My friends and family are all that I need and want. I seriously cannot even think about gifts. My friend's situation reminded me that this time is all about connecting and feeling love. It's about connecting with the people that love you, nurture your soul, and fill your life with love and light. For some people, this may not include family, which is fine, because friends count as extended family, and spending time with them is equally as important. Other people, for whatever reason, don't feel they have a network, and in that case, I always say that connecting with people in any way possible is the solution. There are numerous organizations that need help with various events during the holiday season, and volunteering your time to connect with your brothers and sisters in your community can fill you with much love and light.
I will be volunteering at a local organization for LGBTQ youth, because a friend of mine recently shared his coming-out story, and a huge part of that was feeling like he wanted to end his life. This happened last summer, and because he has such a kind spirit, beautiful heart, and despite his many successes, I could never imagine him feeling that way. It was quite enlightening for someone who has never had an internal battle remotely similar. Another of my friends also shared his coming-out story recently, and the reaction of his parents brought me to tears. My friends are all coming out of the darkness and reconciling their feelings and lives, but I think about the people who are still in that darkness, and like I hug and share love with my friends, I feel the need and importance to do it for as many people as possible. Sure my network is tight and plentiful, but if we all stay in our bubbles, then how we are ever going to collectively grow as a community and people?
Be blessed and love.