Holidays & Hurting Hearts

Home. One of my favorite words. Is there any place I would rather be? God has given our family this wonderful home.
We did not deserve it, but He gave it to us in spite of ourselves. He just loves us like that, unconditionally.
This house is not large or fancy, in fact, it is really rather small. My husband and I have worked hard to make it warm and cozy. We add blankets to our sofas and light a fire in the woodstove. We gather our family around us. And we are sheltered here.
But I am keenly aware that not every family shares what we have. And I struggle to understand it all.

I go off each day not knowing what it holds. I work at a public school with children in Special Education. Wonderful, innocent children, most, with loving families.
Most, but not all. You learn things that pierce your heart like a knife. Most days are tough. Tears often fill my eyes. Sometimes from sadness, frustration, helplessness - and sometimes from JOY. Joy in the tiny steps, the small breakthroughs. When somehow, in some small way you make a difference in a little one's life.

Today was an especially tough day. Most of the students returned to school with happy stories of a long weekend spent with a loving family and friends. They shared stories of their Elf of the Shelf, going to the parade, parties, play dates and fun. But not every child had a joyful memory to share. For some children, a holiday weekend is not a story to share with classmates. I hurt for these kiddos. They have stolen my heart.

I thank God that He has given me love and understanding for these children. My childhood was difficult too. I remember crying out to God as a child in the midst of turmoil. I didn't understand then what I do now. He was preparing me for such a time as this.
Christmas is not a happy time for everyone. Look around, these children are out there, everywhere. Maybe even next door. Some are easy to love, some are not. Those are the ones that probably need you the most. Do what you can. Do something. I KNOW you will.