This Time of Year

It occurred to me, as I looked over my Christmas card address list, that an entire address had effectively been erased. I mean the deaths this year of my aunt and uncle, to whom I'd always sent a card. Loss seems especially hard this time of year and so I remember them and others to whom I can no longer write. And I send loving thoughts to those who are trying to celebrate their first holidays, or even second or third or any, without important loved ones, from my cousins to my playgroup friend. Lastly, I send hope to the family of another friend as they struggle with uncertainty and fear. It's very dark now but the light comes back.