Our most cherished gifts

Seasonal decorations in downtown Woodstock, Vermont. (Gareth Henderson Photo)

When Christmas arrives, much attention is given to what will be waiting for us under the Christmas tree. What can we expect this year? Without a doubt, the anticipation, joy and love we feel on Christmas morning is a cherished blend of feelings that enrich us. Throughout the day, reconnecting with family is part of that precious tradition. It's a time to slow down and remember what truly matters in life, and enjoy some fun moments with those we love.

Of course, a lot of Christmas holiday traditions look different this year. If we're connecting with other family members, we're likely to be doing that virtually. Events that fill the community with people have gone online, with the hope of returning to normal in 2021. For a lot of families, there are fewer gifts under the tree than last year. Everywhere, many things remind us about change, and make us worry about what is to come.

But our true gifts have remained the same, and give us hope for the future. The love and support neighbors have given each other, that's still happening now, along with efforts to provide some help for families who are struggling. In Vermont and throughout multiple states, people are holding up some joy for others, by decorating their homes and neighborhoods for the holidays. The outdoors has also provided some wintertime enjoyment, and some much-needed peaceful moments.

We are indeed facing a landscape of diverging experiences. On one hand, there are the challenges. On the other, we have the things that help us weather the difficult times — love, compassion, joy, patience, humility. In many ways, the holidays inspire us to feel those qualities, and acknowledge and cherish their presence in our lives. The news we hear or read about may not match those qualities, but the fact is, people are gravitating toward them more than we think. There are people helping others with groceries and chores, providing resources to each other as they can, and raising money to help with ongoing needs in their communities. We have cause for gratitude; there is a great deal of kindness happening in our midst, and it touches each of us.

During this holiday, as we receive all of our lovely Christmas gifts, let's remember the ones that have nothing to do with money, the ones that lift up and strengthen our hearts in even the darkest hours, the ones that open the way to hope when the impossible must be done. Those are the gifts that give us the most light, the deepest joy, and the greatest riches.

— Gareth Henderson