Holidays are hard for many people. Whether it is Christmas--where families have to be shared. Easter where divorce of the "every other" is another reality. Mother's Day where a Mom has lost a child, are not on good terms, etc. They are hard. Sometimes, they downright suck! (Technical term, I know.)
It is ironic to me that Hallmark...a national company known for it's greeting cards shares a name/word with hallmark (little h). The definition of little h hallmark is:
a mark stamped on articles of gold, silver, or platinum in Britain, certifying their standard of purity. Purity definition: freedom from adulteration or contamination
Fact is, life is rarely pure. At least in my circles. Life isn't clean. As I sit here today, a dear friend's family just suffered an unimaginable blow at the end of a difficult week. Friday, I went to a memorial service for another friend's father where the passing was way too quickly. I think of another friend going through the pain of a divorce. And yet another friend who has recently lost child. And then there is me. One of my teenage sons is not speaking to me, living with his dad and about to graduate (I hope) from high school and join the military. Hasn't spoken to me since July. And yet, it's Mother's Day.
Hearts hurt. Yet on this day, Hallmark expects us to <cue Beyonce> "Act like you like it and put a smile on it!" (o.k. o.k..... Beyonce may not be a good model right now) :) I digress.
Guess what? Yes, I have friends that life appears grand. Everyone is getting along. Health is good. Love is strong. But for the part of the world that is struggling today. It's o.k. I get it. You aren't alone.
I'm going to make a line of cards for real people.
Merry Christmas. May you find your own meaning of today. It doesn't have to be about posting pictures of a big happy family on social media. Spend it your way!
Happy Thanksgiving! Be thankful for the last breath you took, the sun that rose today, and the bird that flew by. Life wouldn't be as sweet without them. I'm thankful for you!
...and yes, I'm looking for partners in the "Get Real" Card Business. You in?