It is hard to believe that we are already approaching our Christmas break. It can be an exhausting time of the year. It can be hectic and filled with pressure. It can be expensive and filled with social responsibilities. However, I do not think that is the way we want it to be. I do not think that is the way it is supposed to be. But that seems to be the direction it has evolved in — or some would say devolved in. So how can it change? What should we do? What can we do?
Well, I guess that is up to each of us. It is probably different for each of us. But I have some simple ideas.
Would it not be miraculous if everyone, for the next two weeks greeted everybody they met with a real smile, truly embracing the humanity and glory of God in that other person? Would it not be great if everyone refused to be negative and only offered compliments for the next two weeks? Would it not be awesome if every human being took just ten minutes every morning or every evening to pray for a different person they know, or even someone they do not know, asking God to help them in whatever way they need help. Would it not be a way to make the world a better place if everyone just thanked one person they knew — even if it was anonymously — for something they had done? Would it not be truly holy if each person were to visit the gravesite of a loved one and simply reflect on their lives and their gifts to the world? Would it not be following in the steps of the Carpenter if every person engaged in an act of unexpected generosity?
These simple thoughts would actually change the world. And they would launch us into the New Year on sure footing and in the right direction. I thank each of you for the gift you are to the school, for the gift you are to me, for the gift you are to each other. We are a community — each to a different degree. But that connection allows us to be more — to do more — to receive more.
May the joy, glory, and peace of the Christmas Season be with you and may the New Year offer you health, prosperity, life in the Spirit, and great adventures. May you renew old relationships and create new lifelong ones. I thank you for all you do, and I thank you for all I know you are about to do! See you next year!
– George