At first it distracts me, so many ornaments have stories. And even the shape of the tree this year — a widened base, giving it a solid, grounded feel — draws my gaze.
But I strengthen my resolve. I will myself to see it only from the corner of an eye. To work beside it, to let its presence spur and not derail the day.
Less than a week until solstice; the light must come from inside.