By Taylor Sterling
As we express our gratitude during these holidays, we must never forget that the highest appreciation is not merely to talk about deeds but to live by them. You can choose to count your blessings, as I do each evening, or you can count your troubles, which I try never to do. I recognize the problems, but what I am in search of are the solutions.
Of course, there are the wonderful memories… for instance, the picture of celebrating a very traditional holiday with presents, turkey, and Prime Rib Roast from Sam’s Meat Warehouse in Florida, New York; eggnog; and, of course, door slamming, name-calling, and people bursting into tears. Ah, there it is—Christmas with the family!
What also comes to mind during the holidays is that instead of the old vacuum cleaner salesman knocking at the door, wouldn’t it be nice to have someone selling batteries and offering instructions on how to assemble gifts—in English? To illustrate my point, I once bought my son a Christmas gift that consisted solely of batteries and told him toys were not included.
I’m sharing these anecdotes to provide a few helpful hints for the holidays. For example, always check the wrapping paper before you use it. I wrapped one of the Christmas presents early this year but accidentally used paper that said “Happy Birthday” on it. Not wanting to waste it, I simply wrote “Jesus” after “Happy Birthday.”
Remember, the most important thing isn’t what you give or how you wrap it. During this very special time of year, the most important thing is… saving the receipt!
There are three stages in a man’s life: he believes in Santa Claus, he doesn’t believe in Santa Claus, and finally, he is Santa Claus.
As we look forward to the New Year, let’s embrace its possibilities with open hearts. Laugh together, forgive yourself and others, perform acts of random kindness (it’s good for your heart and great for your soul), and instead of counting the gifts under the tree, count your blessings.
One last thought: traditions connect us to the past while creating memories for the future. Whether it’s telling the same stories every year or creating new ones, let’s celebrate the beauty of the season together.
From all of us at WTBQ and WGHT, we hope you had a very wonderful holiday. Here’s to a New Year filled with love, laughter, and countless blessings!
