“Christmas, children, is not a date. It is a state of mind.” – Mary Ellen Chase
The days of hustle and bustle, green and red, Santa Claus and snowmen are here. I so look forward to this season for the feeling of peace, giving and love that is generated by the “Spirit of Christmas.”
No matter one’s beliefs, customs or traditions, it is hard to ignore the atmosphere or “state of mind” that envelops each of us during the holidays. Working in our nation’s capital, the goodness of this season is always a welcome respite from the trials we address each day that are facing our country. It is a time when thoughts turn toward home, to our neighborhoods, to children, and to our soldiers who are serving and sacrificing for our freedom.
My heart goes out to the men and women of our Armed Forces who are serving in distant lands and will be away from home and hearth this Christmas. It is important to reflect as a nation on the gift they are giving each one of us by honoring and preserving our freedom and democracy.
I am also vividly reminded at this time of the men, women and children all around us who need help. With economic turmoil swirling across our nation, the needs in our neighborhoods and communities are great. So are the opportunities for giving and generosity. Yet, the payback we receive is specific and personal.
My fondest wish this season is for all of us to look beyond ourselves and to identify an individual, a family or an organization that could use a helping hand. America is a land of opportunity, a place to create a better life for ourselves and to serve others and help them find peace and happiness.
May the spirit of this season motivate each one of us to bring peace and happiness to Americans in all corners of our wonderful land. Elaine and I extend our best wishes to each of you for peace, happiness and fulfillment as you celebrate this exciting and spiritually significant time of year.
Merry Christmas! |