Tuesday 8 December 2009

Christmas is coming

I hope everyone has a happy Christmas. For some however that is not possible.

Children of recently separated or divorced parents are passed from pillar to post to please the parents and their respective families. No thought for the children. I suggest that you let the children stay in one home and arrange for visits to them not by them.

The families of prisoners miss their loved ones and the victims of crime and their families reflect on the horrible events of the year. I say: try to focus on the fact that at Christmas we remember the birth of Jesus and try to think about his message to the world. Forgiveness is a way of gaining strength.

Old people, young people, people of all ages will be bullied, battered and abused at home and in places where they are supposed to be cared for. Visit a relative, make contact with someone you know is in someone else's care, visit your neighbours and make sure they are fine.

People who are sick or depressed need support and love not platitudes and sympathy. Empathy is a much stronger emotion. Joy and laughter a powerful relief.

It is easy at Christmas to be selfish. The commercialisation of Christmas has made it a selfish event. "I want", "give me more", "I must have". Are you trying to buy love or are you showing someone, through the giving of a gift, that you care for them.

Place the wishes of others before your own desires and then give yourself space for peace in your life.

On Christmas morning I shall be on a beach with my wife and children drinking hot chocolate and eating a few cakes. The laughter of my children and the warmth of my wife's hand in mine make my life full beyond the promise of possible happiness from things, gadgets and gizmos.

"As we sit down together for Christmas lunch, let us remember those people who long for what we in our lives take for granted".