Is not this glass sculpture glorious?! It sits regally in the lobby of the Gaylord Opryland Hotel, Cascades entrance. How would it fit in, in your home's powder room, however? If yours is anything like mine, it would not fit in at all! It would be a "misfit"!
This past weekend, I was privileged to spend time with my mother and cousins in Nashville, just enjoying the sights and shows of the Advent season. One of the things we did was to attend a musical play version of the decades-old TV classic, "Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer", at the Grand Ole Opry House. Here we are!
The overarching theme of the story is that even those who seem like weirdos or "misfits" are valuable and have an important part to play in this thing called Life.
In the story, Rudolph, Hermey (the elf who wanted to be a dentist) and the misfit toys fell into this sad category. All felt that the Christmas season left them behind - - that they did not "belong". Here are Hermey, Yukon Cornelius and Rudolph, adrift on an iceberg in the frigid Artic waters. (Ever feel "unmoored" like that?)
You may be like the normal "Christmas Elf" in that this season is "holly, jolly" for you, all the way.
But, most of us are not like that 100% of the time.
At some point during the season, we encounter life challenges that fail to "make our spirits bright".
Yesterday at work was one such time for me. I did not have a great day at work. It was not my best showing, I'm sorry to say. And, I was talking with another employee, whose mother had an incapacitating stroke recently. Ho, ho, ho - - not. Made my work aggravations seem minor, by comparison.
A huge part of "misfitness" comes from feeling "forgotten". That's how the toys on the Island of Misfit Toys felt - - that Santa had forgotten them. We must not let our loved ones believe that lie of the enemy - - that we, their friends and family, or (worse) that God has forgotten them.
So, how to regain our joy during this season, when we start to feel like an Advent Misfit (or encounter someone who feels like one)?
It is important during this season to listen to each other, when we need to "spill" and just "be heard".
Take the time to put your arm around your friend and give them a hug. Pray for and pray with them.
All the jingle, jangle can jangle one's nerves when the sleigh has rushed by and knocked you into the ditch.
Often, friends just feel overwhelmed at various times in this season. (Have I mentioned that I have not bought but two gifts yet, and both of those are cheapo "white elephant" items?!) . Offer to help them hang the garland or decide on the gifts or choose the picture for the family card....
Take your friend an unexpected treat - - something you think will make them laugh or bring them a little joy. It does not have to be big. Just show your generous heart. Spread the light of Christ by slowing down to show His love. Do that for someone today!
Romans 12:10a (HCSB)
"Love one another deeply as brothers and sisters."
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