Keep your spirits high and expectations low.
Six years ago, after being married most of my life to a man I spent my first Christmas as a single woman with my girlfriend and soon to be partner Lee. Both newly divorced and navigating the harsh terrain of family expectations coupled with a new feeling of isolation we found ourselves alone on Christmas Eve. Being newly in love and still somewhat confused about the dynamic of our new same sex relationship we began our quiet tradition of creating a gourmet dinner together. Lee did most of the cooking, while I poured the champagne, kept her entertained and marveled at the beauty and magic of being alone together on my favorite night of the year. Christmas Eve has always held a sort of crackling magical energy for me even as an adult. We cherish our quiet Christmas Eve tradition to this day even with the changing acceptance and presence again thankfully of family and friends that now join us early in the day. But as the night falls the simple, quiet magic begins again with just the two of us.
No matter where you find yourself this Christmas Eve, there is magic in the quiet, hope in the isolation, and love in the acceptance of yourself. Embrace the beauty of the night and the love and magic that will flow when daytime comes.
Merry Christmas
Love,
Liz