Lesson from a Kids Christmas Party

As I continue on this journey of being thankful till Christmas, I am finding my view is changing on many things in my life. This last week we hosted a party for my daughter's school friends and then last night I helped throw a party at church for the 3rd-5th grade girls. When I walked away from last night's party I felt exhausted and thoughtful. I want to share a couple life changing moments.

1. Starbucks is not the true meaning of Christmas: We had the girls perform songs or plays they made up for our evenings entertainment. One of the plays was about what we so often focus on for the meaning of Christmas. Some of the answers were presents, Santa, time with family, and Starbucks in a red cup. Yes, they explained were all parts of Christmas but the true meaning was the sacrifice God made to send his son to the earth to have a relationship with us.

2. Lonely in a crowd: we had a large amount of girls come out in their pj's to celebrate at the party. It was wild and a blast. As my daughter and I got in the car she was close to tears. I was not sure the emotion behind the tears, so after some digging,she explained how hard it was to be a room full of so many girls and not have a single friend. My heart broke! I was reminded that we so often stay in our comfort zones and do not reach out in "party" situations to someone who may be alone. I will be more careful to be a better friend to all those I meet.

3. Chaos is my jam: I love large crowds, lots of noise and crazy activities. Last night I was reminded that sometimes God also asks us to find rest and peace in Him. I find it easier to be in noise and ignore the pain under the surface. I can keep busy to "forget" the problems around me. I need to take time to be in God's presence and find healing and joy! I need to leave the chaos behind and seek His peace!

4. Find your place: I started volunteering on Wednesday nights on accident. I went to a meeting I thought was for new parents and it ended up being a volunteer meeting where I was now in a classroom with 2nd grade girls. I am not qualified to teach girls, to lead them or to guide them...I do it despite my shortcoming. And to be clear, I love every minute and every girl! They are the highlight of me week and they bring me joy to hear their stories. I cherish every giggle, song and tear. If you feel unqualified to step into a leadership role in a kid's life - you are in the perfect place to do so! Trust me you will not regret the decision!

This blog is a bit scattered but to be honest my life is completely scattered. I am learning to live in the moment and take time to focus on the true meaning of this season. My prayer for you (and myself) is that you find your place in 2018, find God's peace, and that you take time to see all that you can be grateful for in your life!