The silver lining.

Christmas, 2005. The decorating of the Christmas tree. Everybody is there, including our three dogs who are no longer with us. The best part of trimming the tree is putting on the ornaments. "I remember making this one, Dad." "Oh, this is my favourite." "Gentle, that one has been in the family for years." These were some of the vocalizations that were inevitaibly associated with the tradition. How I miss those times.

That was 15 years ago. My son, now married with his first child due in January, lives 1200 km away. My daughter, about to become 25, is on another continent and won't be home for another 9 months. The three dogs have all passed, each giving us cherished memories that we muse on when the moment arises. In the above photo, my wife is showing them a bunny ornament. Marble and Smudge sniff at it inquisitively while Keisha, at the back, is saying "please." Meanwhile, the kids are sorting through the box looking for the next item to be placed.

Here we are, December approaching, Covid turning our homes into bunkers, and Christmas eve is a month away. We are limited in the places we can go, the activities that bring so much joy to the holidays, and the people we can visit. It has the makings of a calamity.

One thing I have learned over the years is that bad things happen. Yet, with each misfortune there is opportunity. Rain dampens spirits but makes things grow. Winter brings cold, darkness, and snow but spring will soon follow. The loss of a beloved pet is tragic but often means a new addition to the family. When Smudge died we got Rookie. When Keisha died we got Murphy. Grieve at the loss but move on. Look to the growth from the rain, the spring that will come, and the new pet when the time comes. Covid and Christmas are the same. There is something to be gained from the loss.

What an excellent opportunity to spend time together and celebrate family. Instead of focusing on the bad and what can't be done look for opportunity to do what can be done. The silver lining in Covid is the chance to spend time together instead of apart. Play games, watch movies, eat together, read out loud, and enjoy each moment. Time is precious. For me, 2005 was 15 years ago (I suspect it was for all of you) and a time when my kids were young and we were all together. Use the opportunity to build relationships within your home. While Covid takes with one hand it gives with the other. Put the silver lining to good use.

Thanks for reading.     Ericspix     Eric Svendsen

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