Christmas Greetings

This Christmas, we're not doing any major gift exchanges which is a relief and a blessing for many reasons. First and foremost, we've been so busy with other things (baby-related) that we haven't really had the time to go shopping. Second, we really do want to reduce our "consumerism" and eliminating presents at Christmas time is a great way to do so. There's a big difference between buying something for someone because they NEED it and purchasing Christmas presents because they're just a routine part of the holidays. Half the time, we don't know what to buy anyway and we just end up picking something that maybe isn't wanted or won't get used. Now don't get me wrong - I'm no grinch - any other year I've participated in this tradition just like everyone else and loved it. And we have exchanged some gifts this year in a MUCH smaller capacity than normal. My hope is that this year, we'll change the WAY we give gifts at Christmas and make a tiny difference, if only just in our household...

So rather than focusing on gifts this year, I want to focus on spending quality time with family and friends and be 100% grateful for all the fabulous things, both material and non-material, that I already have in my life. I have the poem, Desiderata, up in my cube at work and whenever I feel particularly crabby, sad or ungrateful, I like to read it to remind myself of what's truly important. So here it is in it's entirely - my non-material Christmas present to you.

Desiderata

Go placidly amid the noise and haste, and remember what peace there may be in silence. As far as possible without surrender be on good terms with all persons. Speak your truth quietly and clearly; and listen to others, even the dull and the ignorant; they too have their story.

Avoid loud and aggressive persons, they are vexations to the spirit. If you compare yourself with others, you may become vain and bitter; for always there will be greater and lesser persons than yourself. Enjoy your achievements as well as your plans.

Keep interested in your own career, however humble; it is a real possession in the changing fortunes of time. Exercise caution in your business affairs; for the world is full of trickery. But let this not blind you to what virtue there is; many persons strive for high ideals; and everywhere life is full of heroism.

Be yourself. Especially, do not feign affection. Neither be cynical about love; for in the face of all aridity and disenchantment it is as perennial as the grass.

Take kindly the counsel of the years, gracefully surrendering the things of youth. Nurture strength of spirit to shield you in sudden misfortune. But do not distress yourself with dark imaginings. Many fears are born of fatigue and loneliness. Beyond a wholesome discipline, be gentle with yourself.

You are a child of the universe, no less than the trees and the stars; you have a right to be here. And whether or not it is clear to you, no doubt the universe is unfolding as it should. Therefore be at peace with God, whatever you conceive Him to be, and whatever your labors and aspirations, in the noisy confusion of life keep peace with your soul.

With all its sham, drudgery, and broken dreams, it is still a beautiful world. Be cheerful. Strive to be happy.

Max Ehrmann, Desiderata, Copyright 1952.