The Christmas in 2022 was a second one without my mother. She is gone and even if we will wait she will never be home again. A family is never complete without a mother. Truly, only a mother can warm a home with her love and compassion. Her absence is deeply missed every Christmas and other special occasions. I know she is in better place up guiding over us.
Every family has its own problems, flaws and imperfections. The Holy Family showed us that, despite the crisis they experienced, they stayed intact, simple and humble. They did not allow family trials to destroy the family God has built. We should always treasure our family because it is God’s precious gift.
In every goodbye there is always a sweet hello. As the year reaches an end, thank you is never enough to express our gratitude to our Lord for all the memories of 2022. May it be good or bad, we are blessed to experience God’s faithfulness. We may have been through unending trials and challenges but what matters most is that we are still alive. Our faith may have been tested many times, but we are still ready to welcome another brand new year.
We never know what year 2023 holds but we hope and pray for a healthy body, mind and spirit, for prosperity, God’s protection, guidance and provision. We trust the unfailing love of God, and embrace what comes life. May his innocence and gentleness keep us humble and cheerful. May the joy of the bouncing baby Jesus give us genuine happiness.
Lynn Salinas-Batoliño
The Philippines
