Forgiveness

Sometimes we are challenged, and frequently this happens during the holidays. This morning my car windows were smashed and items were stolen.

Honestly, the first thing I thought was, "Criminy, someone must have been pretty desperate to break into a car with nothing visibly valuable in it". They used a medium sized rock, and got some items, albeit valuable, that can be replaced. I looked around at the empty street, now glittering with glass shards from my car. I realized, as I was walking the dog at 5:30am, it had just happened, probably within minutes. I filed a police report, and thanked the officer who came out, as he looked like he had stories of the night before.

He advised I was one of around one hundred smash & grabs overnight. I asked how he was doing, he then went on to explain how last night included a domestic violence situation, and a shooting he sadly dealt with. It further clarified the importance of seeing a big picture when I looked at his tired eyes.

Driving to the station, the accident signs were flashing on the I-90 bridge. I took the express lanes to be cautious, and saw that a truck had struck the cement girder above my lane. It was very clear that someone had been injured and possibly ejected from the car. Once again, clarity of the pain some are seeing today.

I'm lucky all I saw today was missing electronics and replaceable windows. I'm lucky my family is safe and I can look forward to the holidays. I'm lucky I have a car and a job I love.

Whomever acquired my items, I hope you find someone to help you with a hand up,and show you love, so you never have the need to find income in this manner. I forgive you.

This is my first holiday season without my amazing Grandma, and she taught me to forgive. I miss her.

Happy Holidays, Warm Family, however you celebrate. May joy, love and well-being surround you & yours in the coming year.

Much Aloha Always ♥

Maya "Kalikimaka"

My grandmother and I at the Seattle Sheraton Gingerbread Village last year, which she adored seeing every year.