Christmas Lights

"Are you ready for Christmas" - I've been asked that so many times in the last week or so. Ready for what exactly... if you are asking me about physical preparations of feasting and fun well no I'm not ready. The tree and decorations are still in the loft, the food shopping list hasn't been written never mind bought. A few presents bought and delivered to family up North and some cards written and posted. So still some way to go. But this year I seem to be missing my Christmas mojo and I don't really feel much like celebrating.
2016 hasn't been a great year, December is a difficult month with the loss of many special people over the years. The appalling atrocities around the world through war and closer to home those who have to manage on the streets or in overcrowded temporary accommodation make my heart ache.
Christmas is the time we celebrate the birth of Christ who seems to be a tad lost in everyone's preparations. But this is perhaps what I am ready for, the miracle of Christmas, of new life and new beginnings. The still small voice that brings calm and peace, that accepts me as I am without fairy lights or tinsel.

PS These are not my decorations , but a neighbour brightening up the end of the street.