One Imperfect Christmas (39 page)

Authors: Myra Johnson

Tags: #Contemporary Women, #Fiction

“I can't make any promises,” she whispered, thinking of all the hurt that had passed between them, thinking of her mother and father and fifty years of time-tested love. She knew Mom and Dad had their share of rocky times, too, and loud, lengthy quarrels that sent Natalie and Hart scurrying for cover in the barn. But somehow their love had survived, even flourished.
What's their secret?
Natalie wondered, even as her own arm curled around Daniel's waist, feeling its tautness and warmth.

“I don't have to take that job,” Daniel began. “We could wait and see—”

“Not now.” She pressed a finger to his lips. “Just hold me.”

Forgive yourself. Forgive each other.
Her mother's voice rang through her thoughts, the message now crystal-clear.
Nobody's perfect—only God. And he's the best forgiver of all.

She tilted her head to gaze into Daniel's eyes, and the love reflected there rocked her to the core. His strong arm supported her, and moments later she found herself locked securely in both his arms.

And loving every minute of it.

“I love you, Natalie,” he whispered as his lips brushed hers.

“I love you too. I always will,” she answered, and welcomed the warm, lingering kiss.

Belinda Morgan let her gaze drift around the now quiet room. Fifty perfect Christmases. Maybe not perfect by the world's standards—was anything this side of heaven? How many times had she overcooked the turkey or purchased a gift the wrong size or color? How many Christmases were interrupted by an ice storm or a horse with colic? How many holidays had been marred by family squabbles, the flu, unexpected repair bills, or just someone's bad mood?

But today, surrounded by her family, witnessing the joy in her husband's eyes as he held their special “Golden Christmas” ornament, seeing Natalie smiling and once again in Daniel's arms where she belonged, Hart and his family …

She wriggled her head deeper into the billowy softness of her pillow and closed her eyes.
Thank you, Jesus. Happy birthday and Merry Christmas.

Discussion Question

Natalie Pearce is the central character in. How would you describe Natalie to a friend? What are her most notable strengths and weaknesses? In what ways do you identify with Natalie? How are you different?
Natalie's mother always made Christmas an extra-special time of year for the family. In what ways do you think such traditions helped shape Natalie's character and values? What is your favorite Christmas memory? Do you have special family traditions?
When Natalie's mother is incapacitated, Natalie blames herself. Given the circumstances, do you think she could or should have done anything differently? How would you distinguish between self-care and selfishness? Which was it for Natalie? Have you ever experienced similar guilt and wished you could change the past?
Natalie's guilt causes her to withdraw from her husband and daughter. Why do you think Natalie found it so hard to open up about what she was going through? Could her family have done more to help her face her feelings?
Daniel, Natalie's husband, struggles to balance career aspirations with his family's needs and desires. Do you think it would be unfair of him to uproot his family in order to advance his coaching career? How can a married couple determine whose needs take priority when family or career pulls them in opposite directions?
Why do you think it's sometimes difficult for a Christian to admit to the reality of depression? Whom do you find it easier to talk to during difficult times? A family member? Friend? Pastor? Counselor? How could you encourage someone who is hurting to share the burden?
In small communities like Fawn Ridge and Putnam, it's hard to be “invisible.” In what ways do you think such a close-knit community helped or hindered Natalie and Daniel? Describe life in your community. How well do you know your neighbors? Could you count on them in a crisis? Could they count on you?
At times Natalie felt it would almost be better if her mother died rather than continue as an invalid. Can you identify with such feelings? Is it possible to find value in human suffering, for the sufferer as well as for those who love and care for the person? Have you known someone whose suffering helped you grow in some way?
Natalie's daughter Lissa refuses to accept the end of her parents' marriage. Do you think she goes too far to keep them together? How would you describe Natalie and Daniel as parents? What have they done right? How have they failed? Do parents' mistakes say anything one way or the other about how much they love their children?
Deannie, Natalie's assistant, has her own motives for interfering in Natalie's life. Why do you think she became such a willing accomplice in Lissa's plans? Was her Uncle Jeff too forgiving or patient with her? Describe a time when you gave someone a second (or third or fourth) chance. Did it work out? Why or why not?
During one of her counseling sessions, Natalie finds herself calling her mother stubborn. Is she right? What kind of mother do you think Belinda Morgan was?
What legacy do you think Belinda most wants to leave to her family? What legacy do you want to leave to your loved ones?
We tend to think of Christmas as a time for miracles and often create unrealistic expectations for the holiday. Why do you think that is? What was the real Christmas miracle for Natalie? What would constitute a “perfect” Christmas for you?