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How quickly this year has flown! Once again, it is time for my little Christmas column, and once again, I thank you for having made it so well received!
“The best and most beautiful things in the world cannot be seen or even touched. They must be felt with the heart.” The words of the late Helen Keller seem especially appropriate during this time of year. As we enjoy so much, let us remember those for whom the season may not be so festive -- the less fortunate, the suffering, the lonely, those unable to care for themselves, those healing from accident, illness or surgery, those who sacrifice to keep us free, and all who need our compassion, our prayers and our love.
An editorial cited a quote from the late Dave Gardner, “If you think the world is wrong, then right your own self.” The longer we inhabit the planet, the more likely we are to realize that life isn’t always fair. Sometimes we encounter or hear of people or circumstances that cause or contribute to the suffering of others. Mr. Gardner said a great deal in those few words. We can’t expect to solve the problems in the world until we can solve those within our nation. In order to achieve that, we must first right the wrongs in our communities. Initially, we need to look at OURSELVES.
This special time of year is the perfect time for a little soul searching. Are we blinded by prejudice or stereotypes or are our hearts open to true brotherhood? Do we extend the courtesy and respect that we expect? Are we always fair, honest and just in our dealings? Do we simply take the easy path and turn away, or do we confront wrongs and injustices?
This Christmas morning, amid the mountains of rumpled paper, the excitement, the wonderful aromas, and the fun, we should pause and reflect upon the REAL celebration. Perhaps we can learn to genuinely honor the Prince of Peace, not simply by annually celebrating his birth, but by the way we live our lives!
May you and yours have a wonderful Christmas!
