Some fragmented thoughts on feeling whatever you're feeling during the holidays, the swirling emotions within the original Christmas story, and a song about Emmanuel
I listened to the podcast with Krista today. IT WAS ABSOLUTELY AMAZING. I listen to On Being all the time. This was one of the best. Not just because it was you Jeff but the way Krista lead your conversation was different than her usual. There was a depth, a deeper spiritual side to it that ran through its entirety. I listened to the uncut episode which had so many details and reflections that would be sadly deleted in the 53 minute episode. Thank you for bringing your whole self to us here. Merry Christmas to you and Tristan and Fozzie
You’ve captured so much of what I’ve been feeling. I lost my son in a tragic death in May. This will be the my first Christmas without him. I’ve been living in the midst of grief and gratitude. This gapping hole of loss where grief wells up and I’m stuck in the “whys” and “could have beens” and longings. But there’s also this unmistakable goodness that surrounds me from the people who are helping me walk until I can see the world in color again….to my dogs who have been a saving grace….to daily reminders of all the blessings for which God has filled my life. These are my collateral joys where my grief meets up with gratitude and I find myself pondering the beauty within the mess….and that’s where I find Jesus, holding me through it all. And I can keep going into the next day……
Tamee, what a beautiful reflection. I am so sorry about your son's death—and I want to honor the tender wisdom and openhearted perception in your words. I hope that, amidst the grief, you have also had some small solace from happy memories. Prayers for you as you approach and walk through each day.
Reading through these reflections has made me nostalgic for my childhood Christmas feasts in Chinese restaurants. Thank you, Jeff, for sharing these thoughts 💛 wishing you, Tristan and Fozzie a wonderful Christmas marked with the goodness of Christ.
My Great Grandmother always saved and folded all the wrapping and bows too. She had known scarcity in the Great Depression and she saved all manner of things others thought were disposable. I miss her, and other loved ones that have passed on, during the holidays. Gone are those days of loud family gatherings in her tiny old house that was much too warm and so very crowded with aunties, uncles, kids and a miniature poodle, named JP ( John Paul), after the Pope. Grandma was a devout Irish American Catholic ❤️
This was beautiful, as always, Jeff. Merry Christmas to you and Tristan and Fozie - Jen
As always, Jeff, your words speak of authentic faith and depth of character. Thank you. I look forward to listening to the interview. May you, too, have a good Christmas.
I listened to the podcast with Krista today. IT WAS ABSOLUTELY AMAZING. I listen to On Being all the time. This was one of the best. Not just because it was you Jeff but the way Krista lead your conversation was different than her usual. There was a depth, a deeper spiritual side to it that ran through its entirety. I listened to the uncut episode which had so many details and reflections that would be sadly deleted in the 53 minute episode. Thank you for bringing your whole self to us here. Merry Christmas to you and Tristan and Fozzie
You’ve captured so much of what I’ve been feeling. I lost my son in a tragic death in May. This will be the my first Christmas without him. I’ve been living in the midst of grief and gratitude. This gapping hole of loss where grief wells up and I’m stuck in the “whys” and “could have beens” and longings. But there’s also this unmistakable goodness that surrounds me from the people who are helping me walk until I can see the world in color again….to my dogs who have been a saving grace….to daily reminders of all the blessings for which God has filled my life. These are my collateral joys where my grief meets up with gratitude and I find myself pondering the beauty within the mess….and that’s where I find Jesus, holding me through it all. And I can keep going into the next day……
Tamee, what a beautiful reflection. I am so sorry about your son's death—and I want to honor the tender wisdom and openhearted perception in your words. I hope that, amidst the grief, you have also had some small solace from happy memories. Prayers for you as you approach and walk through each day.
This is great. xo
Good Christmas to you, Tristan & Fozzie, from me and my ShihTzu Toby. Thank you again for your words that challenge me in such gentle ways.
Thankuou for your thoughtful generous words Jeff. A gentle good Christmas to you and your beloveds, xxx
Bless you and yours Jeff. Thank you and peace. Your words are a balm.
Reading through these reflections has made me nostalgic for my childhood Christmas feasts in Chinese restaurants. Thank you, Jeff, for sharing these thoughts 💛 wishing you, Tristan and Fozzie a wonderful Christmas marked with the goodness of Christ.
Merry good Christmas Jeff, Tristan and Fozzie. Thanks for these notes....each one.
My Great Grandmother always saved and folded all the wrapping and bows too. She had known scarcity in the Great Depression and she saved all manner of things others thought were disposable. I miss her, and other loved ones that have passed on, during the holidays. Gone are those days of loud family gatherings in her tiny old house that was much too warm and so very crowded with aunties, uncles, kids and a miniature poodle, named JP ( John Paul), after the Pope. Grandma was a devout Irish American Catholic ❤️
This was beautiful, as always, Jeff. Merry Christmas to you and Tristan and Fozie - Jen
As always, Jeff, your words speak of authentic faith and depth of character. Thank you. I look forward to listening to the interview. May you, too, have a good Christmas.