C C C CHRISSSTMASSS!!

It is almost upon us! For some it is a time of eating, indulgence and joy. For me, I enjoy seeing my family and friends the most. I don't care too much for gifts, the food is nice, but again, if it wasn't there I wouldn't mind an awful lot. I do absolutely love seeing people whom have special places in my heart and I don't necessarily get to see the rest of the year. It is the one time of year when most people are together and we can share joyous moments, creating memories and enjoying time with each other. Everything is ready for the day, I have purchased and made gifts, wrapped them, finished work- nothing left to do now. As the day grows closer and closer, there are festive treats in shops, yuletide glows flowing from the streets, and carol singers a plenty. I even have glittery nails! One thing which is stuck in my mind however, and I can't seem to shift it is that for some the festive season is a time where they are just reminded of the treachery and solitude in their lives. The homeless who may have no where to go, the elderly who have no remaining family, those affected by natural disasters who no longer have a place to call home. I should be excited and anticipating the fun and festivities. And I am. But these people are on my mind and I just feel like it must be harder than ever for those less fortunate at this time of year. Last year, Mum and I volunteered at a homeless feeding project on Christmas Day. One old fella really stuck in my mind. I was collecting pots to go and wash them and he was sat slurping his mug of tea all alone. I asked if he would like me to get him a cooked brekkie. He just peered out from under his beanie and grunted 'leave me alone'. My heart broke for him. I was sad for him that he was unhappy, and hungry, and had no one special to spend the day with, even to share a few happy words. But the truth is that there will be hundreds of people out there who will unfortunately not be able to celebrate, or have no one to celebrate with, and for them, this time of year must be very difficult. I count my lucky stars that at this point in life, I am lucky enough to have money to provide myself a roof, food in the fridge and that my family and friends are all fit, healthy and well.So as I enjoy the day with my wonderful family surrounding me, my prayers and thoughts go out to every single one of those people, and for them (and the rest of you) I hope that the new year of 2014 brings better days and a glimmer of hope.