The Myth of the Ready Host

December has a way of convincing us that everything must be fully formed before it is shared.

The tree must be perfect before guests arrive. The house must be in order before anyone steps inside. The table must be complete before a place is set.

And quietly, almost imperceptibly, that thinking transfers to us.

I’ll invite when I feel ready. I’ll gather when life feels calmer. I’ll open my door when I’m more confident, more rested, more put together.

But readiness has never been the price of belonging.