Sometimes I’ve really struggled to come up with a Christmas wish, but this year I’m happy to say that my wish for 2019 was given directly to me. It’s absolutely the best, and completely organic with the flow of the posts this year.
On the 20th I wrote about how I gave in and put up decorations despite my intentions to abstain this year. I put up my Christmas banners, 2 wreaths, and a lighted garland. Last I hung my stocking in front of the fireplace because it looked wrong to have a fireplace without a stocking. My joking comment in the post was “It will be a true miracle if it gets filled.”
Well, it is Christmas Eve, and the stocking is full. No, I didn’t turn it into a self-indulgent sock and fill it with gifts for myself! Rather I turned around one day and saw that it was filled…you do know I saw it as soon as you did it and I deliberately didn’t mention it, right?
I haven’t looked to see what is in it, because I already know. My gift is the 
same that I wish for all of you, the gift of friendship.
Yesterday I talked about my struggles through the year, but the thing that helped me through it and the best thing about the year were the old and new friends who shared it with me. Some of my friendships are old and comfortable (though always surprising me); some are new and exciting; and some are complicated and tinged with disappointment. However, all of them made my year better and as I look back, I can’t believe how lucky I have been.
It’s not just the number of good friends who have brightened my year. It’s the various textures and intricacies of each that has brought light to my world and joy this Christmas. I don’t know what I have done to be so blessed, God knows, it’s often not easy to be around me, and I am very aware of my failures. But like the stocking, it just happens, and all we can do is be grateful.
So I wish you the comfort and love of your friends and the awareness of the gift they are to you. I look forward to joining you here again next December to report on another year. Have a merry Christmas and a blessed 2020!