For harmony’s sake, let’s remember to celebrate with each other. Did you know God is in favor of celebrating? The Bible speaks of weddings, of angel gaieties, and of a father who threw a party for a prodigal son. There is plenty of evidence to think celebrating is a good thing.
The Value of Appreciation
That particular morning, I made buttermilk pancakes and sausage for breakfast. This might be common at your house, but it isn’t something I do on a regular basis. Within a few minutes I heard thank you, which motivates me to make them again. I felt surrounded by appreciation.
Observing holidays is easy because, like birthdays, they predictably show up year after year. But when is the last time we remembered to honor family and friends on an ordinary day? Did anything good happen today? Celebrate. Deliberate recognition says, “I see you. I am so proud of you. I am rooting for you.” A few simple words, spoken from the heart, carry a big encouragement.
We all long to feel special but how many of us really do? Celebrating can happen multiple times a day. Simple appreciation for the one who cooked your dinner can be shown with a willingness to clean up the kitchen. Or, with ordering in the next night. Hugs, thanks, and special plans go a long way. There are big moments like graduations, a first driver’s license, landing that dream job, and happy medical results. Whatever matters to one of us should be reason enough to jump for joy and celebrate.
The Month of May
The month of May brings many celebrations into view, and so many reasons to spread love. Mother’s Day and Memorial Day take the national stage, but our month is strewn with a dozen birthdays and a university graduation. For sure, we’ll be celebrating the whole month—both the living and those who have passed on before us.
As generations are added to the family tree, so are the number of moms. We all either have a mom alive today, or one who now resides in her heavenly home. And lots of us have stepmoms. Because of divorce, I had a stepmom, and I am both a mom and a stepmom myself. Whatever our backstories, people need love. To be thought of simply feels good. Even when warm fuzzy feelings aren’t there, we can still give that mom figure the benefit of the doubt and believe she tried her best. Each of us has the ability to send a word of appreciation. I think Jesus would approve.
In our family Mother’s Day and my birthday fall close together. Thus, both are often celebrated on Mother’s Day. My now grown children will call or show up. And my stepson also calls. By day’s end I feel very blessed.
Celebrate and Decorate
Years ago, Memorial Day was called Decoration Day. My husband has fond memories of family gatherings for the whole day. Lots of flowers were brought along to decorate the graves of their loved ones. The children would play, and the food was plentiful. Those were good times with aunts, uncles, and cousins. I didn’t have this same experience. My parents set down roots in Oregon, far from where either one of them grew up. All our close relatives were hundreds, even thousands, of miles away.
To this day my husband and I decorate gravesites in honor of those who’ve passed. The ones who came before us bandaged our skinned knees, read us bedtime stories, fought for our freedoms, and worked hard, left an enduring mark on our lives. Those past relationships are worthy of honor and celebration. In the month of May we take pretty bouquets, a pail of water, and clippers to the final resting spots. We take time to reminisce and say a prayer of thanks for their lives. The family ties we shared are now treasured memories.
Jerry’s mother grew roses. Pink ones were her favorite. He places a pink rose in her memorial vase. As for his grandfather’s inground site, he’ll lovingly trim the overgrown grass from his burial marker and sweep away the dirt, before placing bright colored flowers in the vase.
Birthdays and Graduates
We’ve made it a point to show up for our grandchildren’s graduations whether grade school, high school, or university. These milestones are a big deal and so worth celebrating. Lots of hard work and dedication went into getting those diplomas. Even if it means out of state travel, it’s all okay. There are no regrets. Just hugs and smiles and days of family love that contribute to harmony amongst us.
Prayer:
Lord, thank you for the gift of celebration. Your Word is full of feasts and gatherings for so many reasons. Open our eyes to see those small moments where a word of appreciation can make all the difference. Let our hearts celebrate Your worth and reveal love for others. Amen
Coaches Corner:
Does celebrating others come easy for you? If not, are you ready to explore what stands in the way? Talking with a Christ-centered relationship coach can help you take this important step forward. The first 30-minute session is free. https://www.rebuildingfamilies.net/a-life-coach-wants-to-help-you-achieve-your-goals/
Shout Out Moment:
My shout out this month is to Kristin Gault. Kristin’s experiences resonate with me. Although I have not walked Spain’s 200 mile “El Camino” road, I am all too familiar with the need to dig deeper. I would encourage you to get a free copy of her book. You won’t be disappointed.
“Digging Deep: Finding Treasure in Dark Places” by Kristin Gault, https://dl.bookfunnel.com/qbhua880kw
From her introductory words, “Life always changes and sometimes these changes creep up and hit hard. As I share about where I had to dig deep to find treasure, my hope is you will be able to dig with me and find your own treasure.”
