It feels strange to have time on your hands when the majority of the world is running around in a state of mad confusion, trying to complete all the items on their holiday to-do lists as they fight the crowds, battle the elements, and deal with whatever nasty virus has invaded their body. At the risk of being mauled by the crowds of revelers who find themselves in this sad and sorry state, I might even go so far as to say I've been a bit bored this holiday season. In Christmas past, I've been accustomed to performing all over town with one musical group or another at this time of year, running from one rehearsal to the next, traveling hither and yon with bells or choirs.
But that was then, and I don't do that anymore.
So there was none of that busyness this month. I was scheduled to accompany one school concert, which was cancelled when the director was injured in a car crash two weeks ago. Now it seems we won't be at church on Christmas Eve, so I haven't even gone to church choir rehearsal for the past couple of weeks, as rehearsals are pretty focused on the events of that night's service.
What have I been doing then, with all that wonderful, sweet, free and unencumbered time?
I'd love to tell you that I've baked dozens of delicious and decorative Christmas cookies.
Or that I've festooned the halls of my house with garlands and lights, and smothered a ten foot evergreen with ornaments and lace.
I really wish I could report having spearheaded a campaign to raise money for Toys for Tots, or Meals on Wheels, or some other wonderfully worthy charity.
Alas, I have not done those things.
Mostly, I've just wandered around in wonderment that I have so little to do.
I've been to some parties, I've done a little shopping.
I've done a comparison test with Peppermint Mocha's (so far Bigby Coffee's is the winner).
There's been lots of reading in the morning, and even a nap or two in the afternoon (sinful, isn't it?)
In comparison with so many of my past December's which absolutely roared with activity and pressure, this one has been utterly tame and placid. I'm considering it a gift, one I've unwrapped a bit more each day, peeking beneath the shiny paper to catch a glimpse of what I might want to do next.
The gift of time is a precious one indeed - in any month - but especially in December.
How about you? What are you doing with your bright and shiny days this month?