Have a Holly Jolly Heart This Year

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Lk 1:39-47 Mary set out and traveled to the hill country in haste to a town of Judah, where she entered the house of Zechariah and greeted Elizabeth. When Elizabeth heard Mary's greeting, the infant leaped in her womb, and Elizabeth, filled with the Holy Spirit, cried out in a loud voice and said, "Most blessed are you among women, and blessed is the fruit of your womb. And how does this happen to me, that the mother of my Lord should come to me? For at the moment the sound of your greeting reached my ears, the infant in my womb leaped for joy. Blessed are you who believed that what was spoken to you by the Lord would be fulfilled." And Mary said: "My soul proclaims the greatness of the Lord; my spirit rejoices in God my savior."

It's the hap, happiest season of all. Right? Hmm.

While I personally think this is the second best time of year next to SUMMER, it can actually be a little tough for some.

Maybe it brings back painful memories of bygone holidays that were less than joyful. I mean, it's a sad reality but some people are more Grinch than St. Nick. That can make it tough on the residents of Whoville, you dig?

Maybe it brings back joyful memories of bygone holidays that were fabulous --- and the awareness that they won't have that kind of celebration this year because of a loss (death, divorce, distance) sets in. That can hurt a human heart, too.

Perhaps some folks feel heightened anxiety from crowded shopping malls or pressure to buy the perfect gifts, bake flawless cookies, or create impeccable feasts loved by all. #StopPuttingExtraPressureOnYourself

Maybe someone's facing a financial challenge, a life crisis, or an ethical crossroads that feels unbearable.

Or maybe, just maybe, despite all the lights, tinsel, and shazam! of the holidays, the colder temperatures and cloudy skies just make some folks feel blue. #SeasonalAffectiveDisorderIsReal

In any event, although most of us wait for this time of year with excitement and joy, please bear in mind that some of the other earthlings may be going through a little something (or a big one) keeping them from experiencing true happiness this holiday season.

​Why not be the reason they smile, even a little, by showing a grouch some extra empathy? #BeKind #YouDontKnowSomeoneElsesPain

​Besides, Santa's list is made in pencil, Capisce?

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