merry christmas.

christmas morning inspires hope.  around the world children wake with wild smiles as realization shakes their groggy brains excited by the treasures about to be discovered beneath the tree.  families are brought together to celebrate their love, and the love of Jesus.  a mother looks on with a teary eye as she watches her creations pull and rip apart the carefully wrapped presents.  she glows with pride as they prance around giggling as they accept her love and gifts.  a quiet brother sits patiently awaiting his turn.  his love penetrates the room silently, but powerfully captivates each family member as they share a moment as they meet eyes.  a charmingly spoiled sister makes a fashionably late appearance rubbing the sleep from her eyes as she graces us with her presence.  hair perfectly curled and falling just below her shoulders, it wouldn't be christmas without her.  a loving boyfriend has joined the family, as he's welcomed with i love yous and warm embraces.  a father breaks the ice with a silly dance move or a random outburst in what is almost recognized as a christmas song.  i watch my worlds come together as one on this amazingly special day.  everything i have ever hoped and prayed for is taking form and the brightest of futures is just around the corner.  it's no longer about how many presents are under the tree, but instead about the amount of love present on this celebratory day.  this christmas is already the most special of my life because i have everyone in this world who means the most to me.  an unexpected love has come exploding into my life, stealing my heart, and holding my hand as he has made the decision to walk through life with me by his side.  i close my eyes and take a deep breath as i absorb the beauty in the room.  love is contagious and inspires us all to be the best people we know how to be.  christmas can be that excuse to let down your guard, and forgive those we hold resentments towards.  sometimes we need a little encouragement to show and tell others how much we love and appreciate them.  God is good.  merry christmas and a happy end to 2011, the most fabulous year of my life.