Our lives are full of suffering, pain, disillusions, losses and grief.  These are the obvious. But there are also many moments of grace, love, friendship and presence. We need to be more attentive to the latter so as to cope with the former. If we focus mainly on the former, we will become easily discouraged and overwhelmed. But if we focus mainly on the latter our lives will be more tranquil and meaningful. For in spite of what curves life throws us, the Lord in his mercy sends us the tools to cope with them. Our celebration of Christmas is one of those tools to remind us of his great love.