MERRY CHARITABLE CHRISTMAS

May this be the best Christmas you ever knew, one which left you overwhelmed with a sense of being the most fortunate person on Earth. May it be one that spoiled you breathless, with countless gifts of enormous magnitude and incalculable value. And, may you have lavishly given to others more magnanimously than you received. But, more importantly, may all your bounty be of the kind that inspires souls, warms hearts and brings hope.

Christmas is irrevocably associated with giving, regardless of your belief about its origin or meaning. Religious or not, this December season brings us closer to people – family, friends, and sometimes even strangers. But, very often the connection we’re inexplicably compelled to make is weakened – or goes miserably unfelt - because of a fixation on “stuff”. Succumbing to the buying frenzy that has become Christmas leaves the less wealthy feeling inadequate in their ability to demonstrate love for family, and imbues those of means with a false and unwarranted sense of meaning.

May your Christmas be rich in what really matters – feeling the loving embrace of family & friends, and finding the opportunity to personally help another living creature (human or otherwise). Perhaps more importantly, may your children learn from your example which gifts are truly priceless.

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