Merry Christmas!

It's been an interesting last few weeks of the year - some of which has been difficult for me, but then I realize what others are going through and I stop and count my blessings. Actually I don't physically count them, I need only look around in every direction and see that I'm surrounded with blessings. For the important people that I no longer have in my life, I have all they left me with and I am a better person because of them. Realizing the many ways I have been blessed by having wonderful people in my life is what keeps those who are gone with me. There will come a day when I'm gone, and I can only hope that I've left such favorable marks on any of those I care for as a friend or relative. There are people in this world who go their whole lives with far less.

The situation I seem to be having trouble shaking off is nothing at all when I look at what others are going through during this Christmas season. Several people I know are battling cancer - and every one of them is doing so with a sense of dignity, humor and strength that is nothing short of amazing. So when I think for a second that I might ask the man upstairs why I am struggling with what I am, despite knowing what actually makes sense, I quickly shift my thoughts to others that are fighting much bigger battles. Battles like these are hard to find any sense at all in - so let me say that for anyone in the midst of such a fight, my prayers are for you, for healing, health and the strength to go on.
These are the real things to pray for, where good thoughts, hopes and miracles are needed. So this is what I have for all of you facing real difficulties - as opposed to my mere disappointment.

I wish you health, comfort, happiness, warmth, love and laughter and I wish that for all of my family and friends - every day of the year. I will hope and pray along with you and everyone else keeping you in mind, so know that you are loved and I am among those who hope for you all the health, happiness, joy, laughter, love and warmth that I want in my own life. I'm thankful to have wonderful family and friends in my life and all of you make me the person I am - without any one of you, I am less. I hope I've been as meaningful to you all - whether as a relative, friend or coworker, as you have and are to me. Merry Christmas and here's to a happy and healthy new year!