Thank you, Jerry. I second Amos! Mick, you, too.
This is surely the darkest time of my life. I am devastated by the loss of my soul mate. But the gifts that have sprung up because of my bereavement have been like shining jewels in the darkest night. Some are actual physical presents, such as the beautiful shawl MMario made and placed in the auction, which a group of anonymous 'Catters bought and sent me. Or the nightly "sneak" who runs to my door, rings the doorbell, and leaves a little token for what ever "day of Christmas" it is-(their interpretation puts the days BEFORE Christmas)-cookies, chocolates, verses, paper cranes.
Or the cards, notes and phone calls from friends telling me their hearts are full for me this season.
But the intangibles are what keep me alive in this time when I'd just as soon chuck it all and go be with Byron. Hugs (I guess that's a "tangible"), prayers, emails, loving words, spontaneous songs; a solstice soak in a hottub with my women friends while the men, just over the rise, sang "I'll sing alleluia" around the bonfire; the pageant at church where the pastor acknowledged publicly the meaning of that day for me (two years ago my first date with Byron was at the pageant at church!), the Nelson solstice concert where Byron's dearest friends sang a gorgeous prayer in harmony (and I was able to be one of them, without breaking down!)
My own usually sullen teenagers who are more open with hugs and helpfulness (not a total transformation, but noticeable!)
The music, hope, and meaning behind this dark time of year. I have managed over the years to "downsize" Christmas for my family so we are almost completely insulated from the rampant commercial fiesta the media wants us to have. So the quiet moments by the tree, the carols on the stereo, the candles by Byron's photo, all create an oasis in my heart.
And, yes, the daily tears which flow and cleanse and may, someday, heal.

Thank you, Jerry for starting this thread. May it stay pure and sweet.

Blessings,
Allison