Anticipation, Hope, and Wonder

I remember the days when my kids were young and loved opening the advent calendar and counting down the days until Christmas.  They were so excited to wake up on Christmas morning to see the presents that Santa had put under the tree. Their hopes for what was going to be unwrapped were so powerful. The anticipation was such a big part of their experience. Now, as teenagers, the awe of the experience isn’t quite the same and the expectations are different. They recognize that the experience is what we each make of it.  Lessons that we, as adults, can take to heart as we head into this holiday season.

As many of us look towards celebrating Christmas and the end of 2021, I’m experiencing many feelings, and my perception is that I’m not alone. However, my primary emotion right now is anticipation. I’m anticipating that our family Christmas celebration this year will bring us new memories to cherish and that a new year will provide opportunities – to do new things, meet new people, and focus on what’s most important in life.   

Like a child, my anticipation is for the good things that will come, not worries about what might happen.  I have hope for a fantastic year. I fully expect that there will be low points and high points, but what I’m hoping for most is that I can fully embrace each day and find joy in the moments.

We can be intentional around how we want to feel, whom we want to be, and what we want to do in 2022. It’s within our control to set expectations for ourselves and others.  Try to recapture the spirit of anticipation and wonder for what’s ahead.  Remember, our life experience is what we make of it. 

What are you looking forward to?  What hopes do you have for the coming year?  What wonder can you find in your life?

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!