Remembering Special People in Gladness not Sadness this Season

Thursday Thoughts, Holiday Message, Inspiration, Memories

As I listen to Jim Brickman play a holiday tune on his piano through a CD I bought the night my close friend Teresa Huggins brought me to his concert, I think of the gift of friendship that can occur during business. Teresa and I knew each other’s names. Still, we never met until one fateful networking event, where we instantly connected and became dear friends – not unlike many other women who have shared with me. She was just that kind of person.

My memories pick up moments of the concert where only the piano notes could be heard as the audience sat in amazement. The royal blue background on stage reminded me of Mother Mary’s clothing, signifying a deeper meaning for me at the concert. Teresa had helped me visualize a peaceful scene with Mother Mary shortly after we met. I have revisited that quiet space and awakening many times since. In fact, now, when I glance at Mother Mary, I think of Teresa.

We always purchase special Christmas ornaments for our spruce tree; I bought one for myself this year—a purple, yellow, and blue butterfly to remind me of Teresa, who passed away in August two years ago. Because she was a close friend for 11 years, I don’t cry for her because I know where she is and that she isn’t far away. I am glad she is out of pain and flying like a beautiful butterfly in another dimension.

Many people get sad on the holidays because they miss their loved ones, and I understand that after losing two parents. However, when a friend passes on, we can be relatively happy that they were in our lives for some time, delivering wisdom, laughter, and love. I listen to Jim Brickman and look at the butterfly ornament, and I feel Teresa is nearby this holiday. Without doing this, she might feel too far away.

Remember today and every day, you can live in happy memories that warmed your heart, even if the person who was part of the memory is gone. By remembering them, we give ourselves a gift that brings our hearts the joy we need.