The holidays are always a great time to get back to the people that you love. There are millions of people that believe the same, and if you do not believe me, just visit an airport an see how packed they become as people travel back and forth to those spots where they can make the magic of the holidays happen. At times, it can be a pain in the butt to be one of those people who are trying to make their flights, and move across the world, but in the end it is worth the time that was spent making the effort.
Despite all of the rewards that come with travels, there comes a time when you have to pack things up and return to the life that you are living. The holidays cannot last forever, and we all need to pack up the packages and decorations. If we left them up all year long, then the moments that we create during this time of the year would be meaningless. We need to have the drudgery of a regular routine to make those moments matter.
I am in the process of moving back to that life. I am not sadden by the prospect of going back to my classroom, my alarm, and my responsibilities. Yes, they can bring us down some times, but at the same time, they give us the life that we wish to live. It is when we get those breaks from the routine that we can find those treasured moments in our lives.
I have just come from a three week respite from the daily routine. It was a great couple of weeks being able to spend time with family and catch up with their lives while sharing what was going on in mine. The meals, the laughter and the hugs will stay with me during the cold and dark beginning of the year, and it will take me through the time until I can come back to see these people again. It is probably the greatest gift that can be given over the holiday season.
I want to thank all of the people in the United States that I was able to spend time with over this break. You have made the beginning of my year great, probably without even knowing that you have done that. I hope that the start of 2025 has been just as memorable for you as well. It may be discouraging that it is time to pack up the season, but keep in mind that it is only a short time until those glittering lights and thoughts of family will return. Until then, have a great 2025, and I look forward to sharing with you the highlights I have along the way.
John Collings 