White Christmas

“I wish for no more lonely Christmases.”

That’s what she said many Christmases before, and yet she finds herself in her couch, snuggled under a fluffy comforter in a state she does not wish to be in.
Alone.

Yeah, sure, she had friends. Many of them actually, but like any normal person, they went to celebrate it with their lovers and families. She received some invitations to some parties, yet she politely refused, knowing she will just feel uncomfortable.

“Ah…” She yawned, as she stretched and blankly watched the Christmas lights in her miniature tree blink on and off, “Oh well.”

She shrugged as she looked over her empty table, which supposed to be filled with food because it’s absolutely necessary to have a feast for the holiday season.

She scratched her hair as she took a lot of will power to stand up and head towards her fridge to search for something decent to whip together and call it a Christmas meal. When she reached her fridge, she felt her heart drop as she let of a sigh.

“Even the fridge is empty.”

She stared at the clock, wondering if there was a convenience store open in this time and in addition it was Christmas. Realizing how pitiful she was, she gave herself mental kick and decided to give last minute Christmas dinner hunting a chance, since it sounded better than staying at home, hungry and drowning herself in self pity and loneliness.

Before she could change her mind, she grabbed her keys, her wallet and wrapped herself heavily for the cold stroll she is planning to venture out to.

-

She shivered as she walked down the icy pavement slowly. She pulled her thick jacket tighter around herself in response to the coldness she felt and continued her way. The Christmas lights that adorned the other buildings around her area blinded her, almost teasing her.

She watched as she spotted some couples happily walking together, probably headed back home to just be welcomed with a family she always yearned for. Some people just do not know how lucky they are to just have someone by their side all the time.

She was jealous.

Yet, she cannot do anything about it.

While she continued walking, she thought of her past, things that was happening now, and things of the future. All of those times were bleak, and the future is looking pretty bleak too.

In her heart, instead of wishing for a no more lonely Christmas, she wished for a sign.
Any sign will do.

-

Fortunately, the convenience store around the corner was still open. She was grateful for just spotting it, since the weather dropped significantly cold ever since she started walking. The thought of a heater and some food comforted her.

When she entered, she immediately caught the eyes of the man in the counter, who wore a surprised look on his face for a little while as their eyes met. She smiled, a little sadly, making her presence known. He acknowledged her by giving out a little wave before she disappeared in the aisle.

How strange he must have thought to actually have a customer around this time on Christmas day. He carefully watched her when she was around his scope of sight. In her basket was a careless assortment of junk food and pre-packed lunches.

“Merry Christmas,” He grinned at her, as she laid her basket in front of him.

“Ah, you too.” She said rather softly, almost heartbreaking for him to hear.

With this, he noticed her sad countenance, giving him a burden to at least make her smile on her way out.

“Hey, don’t worry about the bill, it’s on me.”

“Wha…?” A obvious crack in her voice could be hinted.

When he looked up to hand the receipt to her, tears formed in her eyes, taking him aback.

“I’m sorry I didn’t mean to--“

“No, no. Sorry for crying so suddenly like that.” She quickly wiped the stray tears on her eyes, “Ah, this season is getting me so emotional. Doesn’t it suck being alone all the time?”

He didn’t manage to answer because she quickly headed out the door, leaving her grocery behind. As quickly as he can, he grabbed the bag and ran after her.

“Wait!” He yelled as loudly as he can, and then the greatest miracle happened.
Beautiful white crystals fell from the sky.

He found her standing still, her hands out, watching the snow fall from the sky. He managed to catch up to her and laid the bag on her hands.

“It’s a sign of some sort,” He broke the silence, “It’s been years since I saw the snow fall.”

“Me too,” She said rather breathlessly, “Thank you.”


That evening, two wishes came true.

God brought her a sign, and someone to celebrate Christmas with.