A Christmas Blessing

This was written by a friend of mine. She's a minister in the United Church of Canada.

May Christmas reveal God to you in ways that are unexpected and beautiful. May 2009 bring new things into your life. May the Holy Spirit call to your heart and say, "Behold...believe.....be loved, My Beloved".


Merry Christmas, everyone!

Eight Gifts That Don't Cost a Penny

Spending too much this Christmas, as usual? I am. I don't like shopping. I don't like wrapping. I'm not really a fan of the season at all, Ms J, and I'm REALLY tired of hearing people wish me "Happy Holidays." It's not "holidays", people. It is Christmas. That is the name of the holiday. Christmas. Use it. Please. You will not offend me.

But I digress. What I really wanted to share with you is a list of gifts I found today as I rummaged through my hard drive.

The Gift of Listening
But you must really listen. Don't interrupt, don't daydream, don't plan your response. Just listen.

The Gift of Affection
Be generous with appropriate hugs, kisses, pats on the back and handholds. Let these small actions demonstrate the love you have for family and friends.

The Gift of Laughter
Clip cartoons. Share articles and funny stories. Your gift will say, "I love to laugh with you."

The Gift of Solitude
There are times when we want nothing better than to be left alone. Be sensitive to those times and give the gift of solitude to others.

The Gift of a Favour
Every day, go out of your way to do something kind.

The Gift of a Written Note
It can be a simple "Thanks for the help" note or a full sonnet. A brief, handwritten note may be remembered for a lifetime.

The Gift of a Compliment
A simple and sincere, "You look great in red," "You did a super job," or "That was a wonderful meal" can make someone's day.

The Gift of a Cheerful Disposition
The easiest way to feel good is to extend a kind word to someone.

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So that's it. That's all I've got to tell you today. I'm tired. Tired of doing and going and seeing and watching and eating and visiting and entertaining and shopping and mailing and ...

I'm tired, Ms J. Hurry up, December. Be gone. Bring on the new year.

I'm tired, Colleen.

Tired.

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Here. Have a Look at This.

Feeling sorry for yourself this Christmas? I was ... until I watched this.

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