As we approach the holidays, it presents an opportunity for us to reflect on our past, present, and future. And, reflection can often help us revisit what is most important in our lifelong journey.
About 20 years ago, when I was fresh in the newspaper business, I worked at a large daily newspaper with over 250 employees.
One particularly memorable day, a sales manager came into the office and was distraught about how his morning had unraveled.
Another manager asked him what was wrong, because he was normally rather chipper.
“I got a flat tire on my Porsche,” he replied.
The other manager laughed and said, “I don’t think I’d tell anybody about the reason you’re having a bad day. You own a Porsche! There are many people who would love to say they got a flat tire on their Porsche.”
That flat-tire Porsche owner hadn’t seen his experience in that frame of mind.
His bad day was somebody else’s good day, depending on how you look at it.
Angels among us
Over the holidays, I encourage everyone to look around at the people you see every single day — maybe at the grocery store, gas station, or bank. We never know what challenges they may be facing in their lives, and possibly without the help of family or friends.
There are a lot of people in our area who have lost someone in their family, and the holidays become a very difficult time. A lonely time.
Cherry Grove United Methodist Church hosted a “Blue Christmas” service on Wednesday, December 21, for anyone in the area who may have been feeling “blue” this Christmas. I commend this church for seeking to lift people up during possible days of sadness, anger, pain, or fear.
Shaking someone’s hand, giving them a friendly smile, and sincerely asking them how their day is going can sure go a long way. All of us have difficult days, but some of us have more struggles than others.
Hebrews 13:2, “Do not neglect to show hospitality to strangers, for by this some have entertained angels without knowing it.”
Most fruitful
In early December, with the Christmas tree nearly touching the ceiling in our living room, red and green decorations galore, and holiday music filling our household every single day, I asked my 12-year-old daughter if she was excited about Christmas.
She said, “Yes, of course.”
“Why?” I asked.
“Because we get to spend time with our family. I get to see my cousins. And, I love the Christmas decorations and music!” she replied.
“What about the presents?” quizzically, I replied.
And, then she surprised me with, “I don’t care about the gifts. I just look forward to spending time with our family.”
Over the holidays, may your time with family and friends be most fruitful.