Before Christmas I told my partner that I wanted to celebrate the day in nature and we agreed. I have always been drawn to nature: oceans, forests, parks, any quiet, natural place. Nature feeds my soul and reminds me that God is with me. It is a living reminder of his presence. If God cares about the trees, the rain, and the birds, then I know He loves me deeply too.

Nature calms me. It reminds me that life has seasons: a season to plant, a season to wait, and a season to harvest. No matter where you are, your life can still move toward new flourishing. That feeling is something I can't fully explain; Not even images can capture what happens silently in the mind and heart.

I had planned to spend this Christmas morning in a national park here in Scotland. But as we know, sometimes life has other plans.

Before we left, a small disagreement about how to make the bed turned into something deeper. I've been feeling sorry for my sister lately and didn't want drama; I needed understanding.

I asked him to help me make the bed, but he refused, saying that he had already folded the blankets. I told him clearly: if the bed is not made, I will not leave the house. For some, it's just a bed, but for me, it was about effort. He had become too comfortable making excuses for not doing it correctly, claiming that he “couldn't do it like me.” For me, I felt like he didn't want to put in the effort to learn and I didn't want that attitude to spill over into other parts of our lives.

Instead of understanding, he simply said, “It's okay, we don't have to go” and fell asleep. At that moment, I was faced with a choice. I decided to pack my bags and go out on my own. As I was walking, he called me and said, “You ruined our Christmas.” I didn't argue. I simply told him, “You have your truth and I have mine.” I refused to stay in a cycle of blame.

I headed to the bus stop, not realizing that buses don't run on Christmas Day in the UK. Since I usually spend Christmas at church or at home, this was new to me. I walked to Central Station, the air was cold and the streets of Glasgow were completely empty.

At one point, the strap on my bag broke. In the past this would have overwhelmed me, but today? I just adapted and kept walking. I saw my own growth in that moment. At the station, the only options were expensive trips to Edinburgh or Stirling, and I realized I wouldn't make it to the park after all.

While I was there, I started crying. I realized that it wasn't just about the bus or the bed, but that I hadn't taken my burdens to God in prayer. I had been trying to carry the weight of what was happening with my sister on my own shoulders.

The Holy Spirit whispered to me, “I have carried you all year and you are crying for this moment?” Peace returned. I remembered that if God waters the trees, He surely has me. I thought about those who are in hospitals today or suffering from pain. I am alive, independent and breathing freely. That's a blessing.

My message to you is this: never let anyone take a moment from you. Plans change and people may lack empathy at times, but you can still spark joy. Learn to enjoy your own company and protect your peace. Second, remember that burdens are lifted at Calvary: take them to God in prayer.

Sharing some photos of Glasgow on this calm morning. It was beautiful to see the city so calm. Tomorrow is another day, and God willing, then I will finally reach nature.

How did you spend your Christmas? Was it what you planned or did you find beauty in the unexpected? Share how you spent your Christmas day in the comments section.

Jesus is the reason for the season. Take care of yourselves!