happy holidays

as i was doing my thing and contemplating what to write as a holiday greeting/message i stumbled upon this. though i dont know or follow the person who wrote it someone it was reblogged by someone else who i randomly stumbled upon. i thought what he had to say was beautiful and worthy of notice thus i will use it as an introduction to my own message.

Personally

I don’t care much what you celebrate or why. It’s all hats of a different color to me: red, blue, fuzzy, round, short, tall, whatever. Wear it loud and proud.

The great thing today offers is the opportunity for our traditions, no matter their source. Today is about people and love, no matter the circumstance, and I know some circumstances are fucking tough. Give what you can, even if it’s to yourself.

I wish you, yes YOU internet stranger, all the love in the world. May it rain down on you and may it wash away the wicked and the wrong. May it at least get you tipsy.

XOXOXO
Karl harharhar


the holiday season is a time of year to recollect the events of the past year as well as the memories from years prior and to recognize and remember those things and people in our lives that we are thankful for. for many this is a difficult time for year; the lonliness of singldom and lost loves, the emptiness in our hearts and celebrations as we remember those who are no longer with us, those who are beyond their means to be able to celebrate in the lavish ways so many do, and those who have broken or no families and friends to celebrate with. this is a time of year to reach out and grab the hand of someone in need and drag them into our own celebrations, let them know they matter, show them they can find a home in the hearts of others.

this makes me think of the boy i was partnered with on the day of the child about a month ago. i did not pry into his business, but what i gathered from what he did share with me is that he was taken from his father for one reason or another and placed in foster care. his father is currently trying to regain custody of him which ultimately he would like. his father is jewish and so he has some jewish upbringing and background. once in the system, it has been difficult for him to practice those jewish traditions and he feels ostracized by his peers in the group homes he has been juggled between for trying to teach himself these traditions. i felt it was by some miracle that i was partnered with him and in that moment, the jewish upbringing that at times has been burdensome, boring, or welcome all seemed to matter and be worth it in that moment because i was able to see his face light up when i was able to share with him what i knew. since i have been calling the organization that put on this event to try and gain contact with him so that i can invite him into my community and help give him stability and family.
on the day of this event he shared with me that each year they ask him what he wants for christmas and all he wants is the to be asked what he wants for hanukah and to be able to celebrate hanukah and the other jewish holidays with his father . this was beautiful to me. this is the true meaning and sentiment of the holiday season. none of this comsumerized hallmark holiday, but a time to gather with friends and family, share a meal full of laughs and memories and enjoy each others company.

this holiday season, be thankful for what you have and grateful for the beautiful life you live with the people you love. as the cold air brushes against your flesh let the love in your heart be seen as the warmth and liveliness of your blood mists into steam that fills the air.


happy holidays.