Christmas Outsider

I’d met my boyfriend’s parents months before, but now I’d been invited to their home for Christmas. My own family Christmas celebrations ended when my parents divorced five years before. I had a small family—and my boyfriend’s was big—siblings, their spouses, extra in-laws, and grandkids would all be there. 

The holidays are merry and bright unless you’re meeting your boyfriend’s family for the first time—then it’s a bundle of nerves. What would they ask me? What would I talk about? I felt like an outsider. I decided to wear a long, maroon colored flowing dress— not very practical for helping in the kitchen or for playing with the little kids—so I probably lost points on that decision.


Then, I arrived with nothing to add to the meal, not a pie, or cookies, or anything. What was I thinking? Obviously, I’d forgotten Mom’s hostess gift rule. No points scored there either.



Thankfully, my boyfriend stuck right by my side. He did most of the talking, so I could listen to conversations and watch him share with those he loved in the home where he’d grown up. Besides the turkey dinner they always had, they played charades, cards, and games that revealed a fun side I’d never seen at Christmas. Laughter was as plentiful as the love.


Yes, my boyfriend’s family were checking out the girl he’d fallen in love with, but they welcomed me in. I wasn’t an outsider after all. Feeling like I belonged was such a gift. We can offer that same gift too—it only costs a willingness to love. 


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