“A Kinder Egg,” our four-year-old granddaughter wrote to Santa.

“A kitten,” asked her cousin, aged five.

My kids sent me lists, as per my request, and my husband created a wish list on Amazon – mostly things for our motor home.

I have no idea what I want.  Truthfully, I have everything I need – a great family, loving husband, good friends, comfortable home, and wonderful help.

Chronic illness changes priorities.  My wants are simpler:

• a Starbucks chai tea latte with coconut milk, half sweet.
• homemade (gluten free) chicken noodle soup (my friend Sandy makes the best).
• someone to lie on the bed with me and watch a movie
• on better days, maybe an short outing so I can feel like I’m part of life
• a telephone call from an old friend

Mostly, what I want, no one could ever provide:

• a day without guilt, or shame for how my life has turned out
• a promise that things will get better
• one day to feel normal again
• to be well enough to drive
• forgiveness

What do you want for Christmas?