Memory

Twice today I've seen this:

Another one of those moments, another of those days that I would have preserved in amber if I could, and kept someplace safe. To bring it out like the phial of Galadriel – to be a light for me in dark places, when all other lights go out.

It is one of those timeless thoughts left to us by Lex.

My memories are like that. That phial of Galadriel. I have so many happy memories of my own childhood and of my childrens' childhoods. I have many new memories centered around my grandchildren. I have so much to be thankful for. When I feel down or alone, I can think back to one of those times in the past and it truly is a light in the darkness.

But there are many who will be alone during this Season of Light. Some who have lost touch with their families, some who must be apart from their loved ones because of the call of duty. Their numbers are legion. Spare a thought for them during this time.

And then there are those whose loved one went out the door one day and never returned. Leaving behind only a howling emptiness. Another phrase from Lex.

This is his family's second Christmas without him.

There are others who lost loved ones this year, those families who will face this joyous time with only the memory of the one they lost. This year will hurt. Perhaps in future times they will be able to think back and remember that lost loved one. Maybe see, if only in their hearts, that smile, that grin - one more time.

Spare a thought, and a prayer, for them.