The traditional colors of Christmas are red, white, and green with a little black. But not everyone chooses those colors for Christmas. For some the colors are blue, gray and a lot of black. The first color cluster is what we look for as we enjoy all the excitement and magic of the holiday season. The second color cluster is what some people see as they grudgingly make their way through the Christmas celebration. Both choices of color clusters are acceptable. The comparison of the second (non-traditional) cluster of colors against the first (traditional) cluster may come from various stress and grief issues enhanced by the holiday season. Blue for depression, gray for void, and black for sorrow rather than green for life, red for energy and excitement, and a little black for balance. The feelings associated with both clusters of color are to be acknowledged.
As a pastor who provides spiritual care to women in crisis, I am mindful and considerate that not everyone is engaged in the celebratory observances because they see blue, gray and a lot black. Sometimes those colors have been present for every Christmas during their life. I sorrow with them. Additionally, I celebrate with those who see green, red and a little black. These women expressed their first happy experience with the holiday because they have been reconciled with family, the first time they have been sober to see all of a Christmas day, or having the opportunity to give rather than to take from others. Whatever your Christmas colors are, it doesn’t remove the truth that Christmas is a reminder of the Christ child who became Messiah and offers hope to all of us through the various colors we view our lives.
Rev. Butler provides encouragement and spiritual care to homeless women and breast cancer survivors
The Traveler Weekly 