A warm December embrace for you

It’s that time of year again—the time to get together with loved ones and to reflect.

It’s no big secret that I’m a sucker for this time of year. Walking through the streets with the warm glow of the fairy lights outside and the houses you pass, welcoming you like a warm hug despite the rain and cold on your face. Of course, that’s my experience of living in the northern hemisphere, but you get the idea. There is something about that strong and exciting sense of closure and new beginnings that hangs in the air.

It is the sense of closure that gives us the urge to be with loved ones, but it is the latter that causes problems for many people. Especially as media and social expectations reinforce the feeling.

I’m telling you, don’t feel you’re missing out on it! Because it is impossible to measure yourself against the image of warmth and comfort on steroids that the media bombards you with at this time of year, believe me, no one on the planet can. Just push those images aside and when you do you will discover the true meaning of this feeling. Just take the time to reflect on the past year and focus on the seemingly small gestures you have encountered. It could be a smile from a stranger or someone who helped you pick up a tin can that was rolling in the street when your shopping bag fell on the pavement while you were looking for your keys in the wrong pocket of your coat. Or the friendly neighbour or colleague you often chat to in passing, but have never asked for a coffee or a pint to extend the conversation. I know I’m stating the obvious here, but in our busy lives, we tend to overlook these snapshots of gratitude and take them for granted. Just take those moments and you’ll discover that you’re not alone 100% of the time.

There is one place where I can say with certainty that you will never feel alone and that is our Endeavour community. Whether on Telegram or the forums, there is a constant exchange of kindness, fun and helpfulness 365 days a year. In the spirit of the season, each of you is a beacon in an endless string of lights in my books. For more than five years, this behaviour has never ceased to amaze the team and me. The effortless help and extra bonuses in the form of freely created wallpapers and financial contributions are powerful signs that the world can be a better place.

I never get tired of saying it, but EndeavourOS is moving forward with pride and strength because of you. Thank you for creating this incredible place of kindness, love and respect for everyone who makes the Endeavour or Arch journey. Let’s keep that strong string of fairy lights shining its purple glow until 2025 and beyond.

And maybe if you invite that friendly neighbour or colleague I mentioned earlier for a coffee or a pint, who knows what might happen?

Have a wonderful time everyone!