“All I Want for Christmas is My Two Front Teeth” is the title of an older Christmas song often used to tease those six-year old’s’ who have lost their baby teeth. Grown-ups can be so strange at times. My favorite Christmas song is one by Amy Grant titled “My Grown Up Christmas List.” The song states that she wishes for a world where hearts would heal, lives wouldn't be torn apart, there would be no wars and everyone would have a friend. Most of us could agree with these wishes. However, they may seem idealistic and too profound during a time of festivities, shopping, wonderful lights, decorations and gifts. Christmas is a time when we listen to music that makes us laugh like "Grandma Got Run Over By a Reindeer" or "I Want a Hippopotamus for Christmas." It is a season of gathering family and friends together and sharing meals, laughter and family traditions. Many of us take the time to remember those who are in need this time of year by serving at a shelter or buying gifts for an Angel Tree.

For many years, I worked on the Crisis Hotline phones and heard people share the things they didn't want to talk about with family or friends. They felt out of place and alone. They were sad and lonely. They missed people who were gone from their lives. They shared their family traditions that often included family fights, abuse, alcohol and drugs. Some struggled with mental illness that became worse during this time of year.

I empathized with these callers. To this day I struggle with old memories. Sounds and smells from this time of year trigger things I don't want intruding into my mind. Memories of my best friend, my mother and others who have passed away are strong. They bring joy and smiles mixed with tears and heartache. I deal with mental health issues that often peak during this time of year.

News this week of the death of a young woman who overdosed with alcohol and prescription drugs was a grave reminder of the disease of addiction I shared with her. Last week I heard news about someone who is dealing with a devastating life situation and had to be hospitalized for depression and suicidal thoughts. It hurt my heart because one Christmas I also had those types of thoughts.

The holidays are times of very mixed emotions for me, as they are for others. However, I am enjoying Christmas this year. I wanted the music to start even before Thanksgiving, much to the dismay of my family and friends. I have had a wonderful time finding gifts and shopping online sales. Sharing this season with the children in my life makes it even more exciting. My grandson asks if every package that comes to the house is his. I am spending time with my best friend and her family as well.

Yes, I am going to wrap Christmas presents and spend time with family and friends sharing laughter and fun. I am going to sing Christmas music, watch "Elf," "The Christmas Story," and "Polar Express" and go to parties. I am excited to worship at my new church and remember the birth of Jesus.

Amy's grown up Christmas list may seem altruistic for a time of year that has become more about shopping and fighting over what greeting is appropriate. I can't make all the wishes on that grown-up Christmas list come true, but I can remember those who might need an extra smile or some moments of grace this year. Christmas is a time for celebrating the birth of Jesus. I think He would find wishes for a "world where hearts would heal, lives wouldn't be torn apart, there would be no wars and everyone would have a friend" an amazing way to celebrate his birth. I plan on making that list my prayer for this holiday season and the coming year.