by Noella Noelophile®
(Royalty-free image by Gerd Altmann from Pixabay.)
Classic Christmas stories are filled with plots that start in isolation.
A disillusioned family man whose dreams didn’t pan out. A miser who hoards gold after making the wrong choices. Even a green creature who lives on a hill, overlooking a merry town while begrudging the residents their joy.
And you know how each of these Christmas stories ends.
Throughout 2020–a year filled with twists and turns that seemed straight out of a scary (and often heartbreaking) sci-fi movie–two things held steadfast.
Inspiration, and a spirit of hope.
(Royalty-free image by Myriams-Fotos from Pixabay.)
As beloved events and institutions cancelled or, in some case, shelved their plans forever, others reinvented themselves.
Talented performers shared their craft on YouTube. People from all over the world connected as once-regional events inaugurated virtual platforms. Events that might have just given up and gone away said, “Oh no you don’t, pandemic!” and offered free resources instead, unifying communities.
And a gifted musician opened his heart through his music, reminding his wife of his love after the loss of their baby.
Hope–the belief that things may be better tomorrow–lies at the core of being human. Inspiration is what we gather from those around us–and sometimes provide, without even realizing it.
I’m not traditionally “religious”. But I do find it interesting that, amid the darkest period of many of our lifetimes, the “Christmas star”–the Great Conjunction of Jupiter and Saturn–has made its appearance.
(Royalty- free image by Gerd Altmann from Pixabay.)
Scientists call it “coincidence” or a “natural phenomenon”. But there are those who say, “there are no coincidences”.
Over time, I’ve come to agree with that statement.
So, as Christmas 2020 dawns, what, this year, has inspired you most?
(Royalty-free image by DanaTentis from Pixabay.)
Merry Christmas, and stay safe and healthy. May we see a New Year in which, indeed, there are many “better tomorrows”.