For many, Christmas arrives wrapped in twinkling lights, warm gatherings, and a sense of anticipation. But beneath the glow, there’s often a quieter, heavier reality that doesn’t make it onto greeting cards. This season has a way of magnifying both joy and pain. It brings reminders of what we have—and what we’ve lost.

If you’ve ever felt a twinge of dread when the holidays approach, you’re far from alone.

In the season ahead, there are so many opportunities for meaningful conversation. Sometimes we come to a conversation ready to judge, to criticize, to compare….

What if each of us took the time to set aside those harsh responses and choose to listen well and acknowledge the person in front of you for who they are, for the challenges they face and for the way they make a difference, (even if it’s not your way)…..?

It is often easy to forget the quiet power of acknowledgment.