Tis the Season: Friends and Family

Tis the Season!

Christmas time is upon us once again folks! That time of year when stockings are hung, Christmas trees are put up with pretty decorations, Christmas Carols are being sang by one and all, and Santa himself comes out of hiding!

This year when my Mother asked me what I wanted for Christmas, it was difficult for me to give her an answer. I could not think of anything I just absolutely had to have. I named a few things that I would like to have but also told her they were things I could save for and get on my own. Gifts are the least of my concern this year. I would rather just spend time with friends and family and enjoy good food and fellowship. Don't get me wrong, I do like gifts, but this year especially at this time, has been rough for most everyone. The gift giving shouldn't be the most important issue anyway. Yes, it is a nice gesture, but we need to focus more on time with our families and close friends rather than what we can buy for Jim, Bob, and Sue! Some people cannot afford to buy much if any at all. Once again, that is why I say the focus needs to be taken off the gifts and geared toward family and friends again like it was many years ago! God doesn't want us to be greedy, bitter, hateful people just because we didn't get a gift. We need to learn to appreciate what we do have and not dwell on what we don't have.

Last week, I had the chance to go visit a friend whom I had not seen since high school. She invited Michael and I over for some homemade chili and boy was it good! I am very grateful that I was given this opportunity because I didn't really have a chance to get to know her much in high school. She is a very down to earth, loving, and devoted wife and mother. She has an adorable little boy who just loves Michael to death. It was very humbling for me to be able to reconnect with her. She leveled me out a bit I guess you could say and it felt good. I am looking forward to being able to build our friendship into one that will last a lifetime! :)