12/30/2021
Several people have asked why we didn’t do a community outreach project at the Heartlight Tree this year. Thank you for asking and telling us that what we do means so much to you! It feels good to know what we’ve done in the past for the holiday season to remember our beloved children truly offers even a small measure of peace, hope and healing. This tree stands on sacred ground because of the love and energy you all bring to it for everyone near and far.
So many of us have endured a long and stressful year of life challenges, health issues and personal loss, and I’ve had my share as well this year. The honest answer is that I needed to take a step back and prioritize what I took on this holiday season. I simply needed…simplicity.
When I set my intention for that alone, my holiday to-do list became shorter and my choices held more meaning and purpose. The ultimate gift was being more fully present to the season, to my family and to myself.
I will admit though, when the city crew rolled up in the T-rex to hang the heartlight decoration, I felt a hint of regret about my decision. After all, it is the 30th anniversary year. In some way, we should be honoring its service with gratitude and appreciation. Will people perceive it as another “cancellation” in the midst of this wretched pandemic? Are we letting down people who are grieving hard and need an outlet to share their thoughts and memories? Suddenly, I felt as though my list was far too short and self-centered.
On that first night of the official tree lighting, we drove to see the tree after the Parade of Lights. Stann parked the car curbside on the street directly in front of it so we could get a full view and some photos. Gazing out the window in awe, my worries about whether we had done enough dissolved into grateful tears. The Heartlight Tree illuminated this sacred ground with grace in all its simplicity and beauty…one blazing heartlight shining brightly for the needs and prayers of all of humanity. And then…I heard his sweet voice whisper, “Mom, it’s okay. This is what it was always meant to be.”
The Heartlight Tree stands strong and tall on its own, shining it's light and love on all who gaze upon it. I hope you take some time before the new year begins to bask in its healing light.
With much love and gratitude,
Carla
PS. What about next year? I already have an idea in mind so stay tuned! 😊
💖A note of gratitude and appreciation to our dearest friends Steve and Kathy Gaber for providing the electricity for the heartlight decoration, and to the City of Montrose for placing the heartlight on the tree. Special thanks to 2021 city crew members Brandon Owens, Chris Randall, Kody Bice and Mason Blair and T-Rex!
