Craig Christmas

I was lucky enough to drop in on Jimmy, Janelle and Luke the other day and was treated to a special afternoon of Christmas music at a concert put on by the Craig staff and patients. It was a truly memorable time as the employees presented a full choir and lots of small ensembles and solos of Christmas music. The level of talent was impressive and we were touched by both the music and the sentiment of their hearts. Current and former patients also sang - tears were freely flowing!! We all pondered what the emcee acknowledged: none of the patients had intended to be at Craig during this time and the staff recognized that it was not their choice to be there. They sincerely wished for each patient that next year they would get to be wherever they wanted to be. That's our wish, too, knowing that Jimmy would prefer to spend Christmas in his own home, with his family, his friends and his dogs. The concert reminded us what a beautiful, humble reality that one can still find celebration and joy in the midst of (not in spite of) suffering.

We definitely feel the spirit of Christmas, acknowledging the humility and mercy of God coming as a dependent, helpless infant and the love that is necessary to nurture and heal. Our hearts are full in the middle of the brokenness.