by Sandi Rauwolf

Created on: December 21, 2009   Last Updated: December 23, 2009

While getting our Christmas stuff out, mixed amongst all of the stacks of things on the counter Samantha had placed a box of mini candy canes. As soon as I saw it, within my heart triggered a beautiful memory of being about her age so excitedly standing in line waiting to see Santa. I could not wait to get up there and tell him all the things I had seen in the JC Penney and Sears catalogues that year. I remember my sister, brother and I would sit there for hours making our wish lists. I took one of the mini candy canes and as soon as it touched my lips, another wonderful memory overflowed my heart of those special moments I have been blessed with through the holidays.

Growing up we didn’t have much compared to others but we had two parents who loved us unconditionally and who instilled within each of us hearts overflowing with thankfulness for what we DID have. We were reminded to be thankful for even those yucky green beans in front of us (well, we thought they were yucky at the time). My Dad would always remind us that there are many people in the world who don’t have a single morsel of food to eat. We were always told that no matter what, we were loved and we were often reminded of that after we had made a mistake. So although the consequences were harsh, we were taught to learn from those mistakes and to know that we were still loved - unconditionally. It was important we understood that it was our decision that was bad and not who we were that was bad. So although the candy cane taste triggered wonderful memories, it isn’t the tangible things I remember but the love, peace, acceptance and joy I felt through those times – true unconditional love. What incredible treasures they are deep within my heart.

This year if you are facing a holiday where you don’t have funds to purchase gifts or to financially help others, please remember that love and joy are FREE and everything you do in life is building a memory for someone else – give freely of your heart, of your time. Share love and joy with others, it’s the best gift you could ever give to someone and the best way to get into the Christmas spirit!

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