This time of year is a good time to reflect on your relationships.
Appreciate those around you; learn from the good and bad. I
lost my Mother some ten years ago, and although we had a very
good relationship, there are still a great deal of things we
did not say. Don't get caught up with the gift-giving, a few
good words will mean more than that sweater with the logo.
Keep the Spirit Alive!
Little sidenote:
Chanukah (or Hanukah) is the Jewish Festival
of Lights celebrated for eight days. It is a time to remember
the miracle of the oil that burned so that more could be made, and
the temple could be
restored. It is a time to remember God's love and devotion to
us. Unfortunately, the larger card companies and others have turned this
religious holiday into something different. Here's a
Hanukah site.
Little sidenote:
Christmas is a holiday celebrated by Christians to
honor Jesus's birthday. "I bring you good tidings of great joy!"
It should be a day of peace and blessings,
but who would know from visiting the malls? Using the term, "Xmas"
symbolizes, to most Christians, the "X"ing of Jesus right out of the
holiday. There's thousands of Christmas sites, but here's the
Catholics' Advent
page and Christmas.com.
Little sidenote:
I'm really
not a Kwanzaa expert, but from what I understand, it is a holiday
celebrated from December 26 to January 1, and originates from Africa.
I understand Maulana Ron Karenga, the U.S. "founder" [that may not
be an appropriate description], hoped to eliminate the commercialism
associated with Christmas. Someone should have told
the card manufacturers! Check out Kwanzaa sites on the web, like this
link.
Special Note to my Students:
One more note: Candice and I go to all the activities we can -
Tree Lighting, Menorah Lighting, and Kwanzaa Activities.
Not only do I not see my students, I sometimes don't see many
people at all! You have the opportunity to experience all kinds of
activities in D.C. and the surrounding area. Take advantage of
your locality!!
