In a little over 72 hours it will be Christmas. As I sit at one of my favorite coffee houses it struck me that another year will soon pass and what a difficult one it has been. What’s funny is people seem to be spending what they don’t have on things to give to people that they don’t like.
All of this out of some sense of obligation, to tradition of gift giving, at Christmas time. I’ve always wondered why people have to wait till the end of the year to give family and friends gifts. I mean are the children really going to be any better, if they’re told Santa is checking the list twice?
Please don’t get me wrong, I’m not being Scrooge here, I’ve always thought about what makes this time of year more special than say the 25th of March. As an observer of people it’s really interesting watching people go through a ceremonious frenzy during the month of December. The lists, the concerns, and last minute planning that takes place, is indeed something to behold. I realize for many both Thanksgiving and Christmas are major family holidays. It’s supposed to be a time for family to come together and celebrate. But for so many getting together for the holidays are filled with trepidation, and disappointment despite what we see on the TV commercials.
However, for every family member dreading the family gathering, there is a family who wish desperately that they could be with their families. These are the children, husbands, wives, fathers, mothers, aunts and uncles who have people in the military who are in foreign lands or at sea. For these families who have loved ones so far from them wondering if they are out of harm’s way and hoping and praying that they will get to spend another holiday season with them, this time of year is extremely special for them.
At this time of year we should say a prayer of thanks that people such as these are wiling to volunteer to enter military service to stand on the wall and protect our freedom. I can’t help but believe these individuals would give anything to be home among the bickering and infighting, as it would be much safer than going out on patrol or standing guard in some remote location with only their thoughts of home to keep them comfortable.
So for those who are scrambling to get to the mall for that last minute gift, if you happen to come upon someone in uniform, walk up to them and just say “thank you.” Just two little words will go a long way in making their day.
Happy Holidays to you and yours.
© Timothy A. Wilson 2009. All Rights Reserved.
