If I had all the money in the world, I think I’d have the most fun giving it away. 🙂
It’s an irony of sorts, really, because I get so worked up and stressed out about the process of getting out in the crowds, the rudeness, etc to get a gift yet when it comes down to giving it to the receiver their reaction makes up for it all. The best gift is given to those who least expect it. This afternoon I delivered something simple to our neighbors in thanks for being good neighbors. I received in the long run because with each neighbor I was invited inside and the exchange of conversation was a gift to me.
I am so glad to finally be in the ‘mode’ of what Christmas is. Christmas is like having a hurricane. (Come on all of you IKE survivors, you now where I’m going with this.) It’s that time that we pull ourselves away from work, kids extracurricular schedules, the TV, and anything that keeps us ‘preoccupied’ with seeing that gift that we live each day and that is being in community. In the aftermath of a hurricane everyone had no choice but to step outside of their homes (because it was HOT) and meet neighbors, come together and share a meal (or else it’d spoil!), and celebrate the blessings they had in the simple things because it was a waste of time to moan and groan about what was lost that could easily be replaced.
Christmas brings us into community with our family and our friends. Even if you only get the one day – count your blessings.
December 21, 2010
Tuesday of the Fourth Week of Advent
Readings: Is 7:10-14; Lk 1:26-38
Therefore the Lord himself will give you this sign:
the virgin shall conceive and bear a son, and shall name
him Emmanuel.
Is 7:14
Advent is par excellence the season of hope in which
believers in Christ are invited to remain in watchful and
active waiting, nourished by prayer and by the effective commitment
to love. May the approaching Nativity of Christ fill
the hearts of all Christians with joy, serenity and peace!
Angelus
December 3, 2006
Blessings
Shannon