Friends and neighbors,
This Christmas looks different than it normally does but the Reason for the season has not changed. We can celebrate in the midst of challenges as others have done throughout many past years of personal and societal Christmas challenges.
I love reading and seeing the creative innovative ways, big and small, that people in our district are celebrating Christmas.
There have been several creative ideas: police spotting decorated homes and posting a beautiful photo, drive-through food giveaways, drive-through food drives, drives for socks for the homeless, learning to make bread for gifts, remodeling a home to prepare to adopt a sibling group from Minnesota’s waiting children, finding peace through time to renew faith, more homemade gifts, gardening, shopping local to support neighbors, time to be with family and so much more.
And remember that those idyllic tv ads of “perfect” scenes are staged. Your experience is real and of much greater value.
Covid is an issue, but allowing it total domination of your life is not necessary nor healthy. Do those practical measures to keep safe and healthy, taking care of yourself, but in the midst of this time, find joy, peace, love, and value in life itself.
In looking for ways to meet other’s needs, you can meet your need too. That is the Spirit of Christmas, pure and simple. And never underestimate the power of small kindnesses as you go through your day.
The beauty of America is that Christmas is not exclusionary. You have the freedom to celebrate — or not — however you please. But even if you do not celebrate Christmas, the values of Christmas — spending time with loved ones, sharing with others, helping your neighbors — are yours too.
Ralph and I wish you and your family a wonderful Christmas.
Sincerely,