I know current events can be scary, and that the financial outlay of the holidays can be intimidating and overwhelming. But please consider that regardless of what faith you may or may not possess, there is an inherent call to good and companionship in the air.

With all the division, anger, and frustration bubbling up worldwide, this is an opportunity for a real break. Ignoring the calls especially to excesses in consumerism, and simply being with the folks you love, stepping back from work and the circuses of broadcast and social could be so good for so many of us.

To seek and embrace love, joy, and warmth.

To reach out to old friends and neighbors, to reconnect and reconcile. To carry the gratitude of what matters. Times like this can, if we let them, solidify our foundation as people.

It is so easy to be angry, to be sad, and to be scared. The tension that looms is tangible for many. But that will be what it will be. Far beyond my capacity to change, and likely yours as well. And that is okay. We can only affect that which is in our reach.

So why not breathe. Embrace the love and joy you have. And if you find yourself feeling as though there is none left for you, if life has made you feel alone.

Find a way to do something kind for someone. Help someone, somehow. My Pops always says, 'If you feel bad, help someone. Even if you still feel bad, at least you did something good."

I know the world is full of irrational hate, I try to find equally irrational love. I don't always succeed but I find it is better to try.

So I love you, and you should to. Merry Christmas. Happy Holidays. And may 2025 please be gentler on those who are hurting than we may expect. May kindness, mercy, and forgiveness move into all hearts.