FINDING GOD’S VOICE IN UNEXPECTED PLACES

 

Enjoying a cozy morning - 
Photo by Vlada Karpovich: https://www.pexels.com

It was a peaceful Saturday morning in December, the kind of day that felt like a gift in itself. The sky outside was a moody gray, the perfect backdrop for a cozy day indoors on the weekend, especially in a holiday season like this. The usual neighborhood bustle—the hum of cars, the sound of kids playing, or the murmur of chores—was notably absent. It felt like everyone was wrapped in the same blanket of tranquility that cradled me. ‘Such a perfect moment!’ I told myself. Everything seemed to be in harmony with nature.

I settled into my favorite spot on the couch, next to the window where a gentle breeze sneaked through the slightly open pane. A steaming mug of hot cocoa rested in my hands, the rich scent mingling with the crispness of the air. On my laptop, the latest episode of my favorite anime Detective Conan was waiting for me. But before I hit play, another suggestion caught my eye: a Christmas movie. The cheerful red-and-green thumbnail promised warmth and joy. ‘Hmmm, why not?’ I thought, letting my curiosity lead the way. Besides, a Christmas movie seemed to be a perfect company for my hot cocoa and a weather like this.

As the movie began, Ashley Williams—radiant as ever—filled my screen. Her vibrant smile seemed to transform my living room, as if she had brought the Christmas spirit directly into my home. I’ve always loved Ashley Williams. Her energy through her wide smile and sparkling eyes since her days on How I Met Your Mother never failed to captivate me, but something about her performance in this Christmas movie struck a deeper chord. It’s different! It wasn’t just acting; it felt real, contagious even. I found myself sitting a little straighter, as if by simply watching, I could absorb some of her positivity.

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As we all know, Christmas movies often follow a predictable formula—a touch of magic, family reunions, and an inevitable love story—but somehow, this one felt different. Well, maybe it was Ashley’s radiant smile (I seriously wanted to borrow her smile and embody that energy). Or maybe it was my mood, the hot cocoa, the weather outside, or simply just the combination of all those. I wasn’t sure, but I knew that I was completely drawn in. And when the movie nearly reached the end, there came one line in particular that stayed with me long after it was spoken: “The further you are from where you started, the closer you get to where you belong.”

I froze for a few seconds. That line resonated deeply, like it was meant for me, like a message sent to me and I was meant to hear that. It really felt like a gentle nudge from the universe, a reminder that every step we take—even the ones that lead us away from familiar paths—brings us closer to our true selves. I guess there must be a reason why that movie popped up right next to my favorite show and why I clicked it. It was a moment of clarity wrapped in holiday cheer.

As the snowstorm in the movie grew fiercer, so did the warmth shared between its characters. That’s the beauty of Christmas stories, isn’t it? They remind us that no matter how cold the world feels outside, the true warmth comes from being surrounded by loved ones. There’s something profoundly comforting about the way these tales weave together hardship and love, reminding us that even in the harshest winters, we can find light.

I paused the movie and glanced outside. The gray sky hadn’t changed, but now it felt less somber and more like an invitation to reflect, to be grateful, to find joy in the small moments. I thought about my family and friends, the ones who light up my world in their own ways. The movie had subtly shifted my perspective, wrapping me in its message like a soft blanket.

So here I am, sharing this cozy moment with you. May your December be filled with peace, love, and the magic that only this time of year can bring. Whether you're bundled up indoors or braving the chilly winds outside, I hope you find the warmth that truly matters—the kind that comes from the heart. And oh, here is the link to the movie if you want to watch it.

Happy holidays, folks... and here’s to a bright and beautiful New Year!