I looked up the origin of the phrase “true blue.”  Some say it refers to the endless blue sky above us, the blue yonder.  Others suggest that it might have had something to do with the purity of noble lineage, as in “blue blood.”  Most likely, it is a direct reference to a particular dye-making technique from the Middle Ages in Coventry, England.  Coventry blue didn’t run or fade like other blue dyes of the period — it lasted, it remained true.

It seems apt that “blue,” now, can also mean “sad.”

Because being true to our own feelings, the completeness of our emotional landscape, almost always means acknowledging some measure of sadness, nostalgia, and heartache…

While the colors of grief and loss with time become less sharp — they fade with wear — the truth is, sadness endures.  And from time to time, around the holidays especially, these blues can pop with renewed intensity.

It’s so important to remember that our sadness doesn’t necessarily mean that something’s wrong.

It’s okay to be blue, to mourn, to feel moody and melancholy and maybe even a little miserable.  It’s okay to remember the past, and look back with sweet sorrow, love, and longing.  It is always okay for us to honor our feelings, whatever they are.

It’s also perfectly fine to be confusingly happy at the same time.  We get to be complex.  Honestly, this kind of contradictory mixed bag of emotions is probably the most authentic expression for most of us most of the time.

Sure, the season calls for the donning now of our gay apparel, but that doesn’t mean we can’t get our blues on as well.  Let’s add those bluesy notes to the “fa la la la la,” and truly share the fullness of our hearts.

This Sunday, we will hold a special place to honor the wholeness of our feelings during the holiday season — happy and sad, in love and loss, with tenderness towards ourselves and each other.

Even when I’m blue, it is a joy to be with you, friends.  See you Sunday.  XO, Drew

© 2018 Drew Groves