Image by Darwin Laganzon from Pixabay
By: Gary D. Barnett
I want to wish all of my subscribers, and everyone else as well, a very wonderful Christmas season. After all, it is a symbol of peace, something very much needed in this ridiculous and dangerous world we live in today.
I realize that some will take the traditional meaning of this time to heart, and appreciate the history of the holiday. I imagine most will see it as a time of gifts, good food, and cheer. Families and friends will come closer together. Others will celebrate Christmas for the commercial farce it has become, and yet a few others will shun it as irrelevant. But it is not irrelevant, as most all will gain at least a moment of cessation from the trials, discomfort, and hostility of everyday life.
Regardless whether one is religious, not religious, or just confused about the whole ordeal, there is much good that can come from this time. First, there is family, and most attitudes soften, and people have closer ties during this season. Friends are friendlier, non-friends are also friendlier, and complete strangers smile more often. This is something to hold on to, especially in this unprecedented time of division.
This is also the most special time for small children, and the joy in their faces is enough to melt the heart of any man. This attitude should be remembered, and should be cherished. If only it could last forever, the world would be a better place.
Why do we fight? Why do we hate? Why do we wish for harm to come to others? If most can soften and enjoy this time of year for a moment, why then can that moment not last? Why do people go back to to their endless indifference instead of wishing their neighbor well?
This year for Christmas, I hope all look around and notice the change in their fellow man. I hope they notice the increase in courtesy and laughter, and the quickening of step that indicates joy. This feeling and attitude does not have to go away after Christmas; it can last forever if people simply choose happiness and comradery instead of divisiveness.
Would not that world be a better place to be? Maybe all of us should have a permanent truce, and act as if it is Christmas all year long. Peace and harmony is a better way for all.
I wish all my very best …