My thoughts this Christmas 2025

 This time of year, much is on my mind. Years lost. Carefree memories. The birth of each of my children. Celebrations long erased. Loss. Hallmarks. Achievements, Regrets, Unmerited Grace. Milestones. Kindness. Family. My fellow man. Those in need. Those long forgotten. Those behind bars. Those battling illnesses and their loved ones/family. Uncertainty. Stresses. Wasted hours, days, and years. Redemption. Humility. Changes, and Love(s).

Christmas cards during WWII, for me, have always held great importance, and they resonate with my very soul. Simplistic yet sincere. They knew not how the war would end. If they would ever again see those they loved. If their children were orphans. If their loved ones would return “whole”. Pressures knowing life is forever changed and what was would never be again. Unrelenting sacrifices. Tears, unrelenting tears. And yet they took the time to wish others a Merry Christmas. A heartfelt wish of happiness to others while pain(s) soaked into their every waking moment, their sleep, and the in-between.

Though this sentiment is sometimes diluted by challenges, this true love to, from, and for God has always sustained me. It is a fundamental teaching of God to love your neighbor and to love your enemy. This season, this year, and every day after should bring this same authentic good wishes and love for one another, both near and far.

It is in this light, being thankful and humble, that I wish you all a Merry Christmas, and I pray God blesses you and yours…always