When we write or speak about why we are grateful, we aren’t claiming other things aren’t also true.⁣
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When we write or speak about why we are lamenting, we aren’t claiming other things aren’t also true.⁣
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It’s all about the “both and.” We can be grateful for things worthy of gratitude. We can lament things worthy of lament.⁣
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And we can honor those who are led to express one but not the other at this particular time or another particular time. We can honor those who can’t express anything right now. We can honor those who just need humor and distraction. ⁣
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Of course, there are holidays and liturgical seasons and other emotional and spiritual prompts that help us navigate our hearts and minds and souls. But our current personal experiences and circumstances may not line up with all of that. And that’s okay!

Holidays and liturgical seasons can encourage us toward certain truths that don’t feel natural or easy to believe in that moment. That can be a good thing!

But no one is making you focus on gratitude or the coming birth of Jesus when you NEED lament and the Resurrection ASAP.
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Really. It’s all okay. (I mean. Within reason.) Jesus came to free us from so many things. He frees us from cultural and religious and societal holiday expectations that we really don’t have to give in to. Be free. Lament, grieve, be thankful, be joyful, wait, don’t wait.
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It’s impossible to write or speak or explore the whole story every minute of every day. But we can write, speak, and explore pieces of it. We can uncover some of what’s hidden, we can explore some of what’s been revealed. ⁣
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That’s why we keep writing, speaking, and exploring.
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So, let’s be free with our stories. And let’s honor others and their stories.
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Okay. Carry on with figuring out how to prepare your Thanksgiving turkey which will most likely be dry and bland anyway. (Did I just say that?)

*Image and words originally posted by Charlotte Donlon on Instagram.