2008.12.23
Merry Christmas
Dear readers: I ran this last year, and it's worth repeating. I don't know who wrote it. But the author doesn't matter. The message does. I trust you will gain as much inspiration from it as I did.--s
Peace begins within.
That message is particularly poignant this time of year.
In this season of peace on Earth and goodwill toward men, individuals have
within themselves the power to cultivate peace. Perhaps the most important
lesson given to us by a carpenter's son from Nazareth is that the power to
spread peace is not the sole domain of heads of state who can so easily wield a
major influence, for good or ill, over daily international affairs.
Everyday people - a teacher, a coach, a homemaker, a member of the clergy, a
shopkeeper - might not have the direct ability to solve great world crises.
Through patience, tolerance and understanding, however, they do have the power
to end conflicts in their families, in their neighborhoods and in their
workplaces.
Indeed, peace and goodwill are gifts that people can extend to each other
daily. The ability to do a good deed exists in everyone - by speaking an
encouraging word to a troubled child, running an errand for an elderly person,
or giving a fellow motorist a break in traffic.
The choice to exercise that ability, though, remains with the individual.
Peace and goodwill are the remnants of that first Christmas in Bethlehem. The
message that came forth from there was that much of the anger in the world could
be dispelled by following His example.
An excellent post. Amen.
Merry Christmas to everyone on the blog!
Comment by Ed S. — December 23, 2008 @ 10:42 pm
With the coming year, I bid you pleasant tidings, and I wish you receive everything you wish for: a larger pay check, an ever growing blogging fan base,
And that Flat screen Television you have been ogling.
Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year Shanna, Mike, Lo, Ed S., Terry B., Ms. Goldenwillow, LRS, and Percy Kution and the rest of Shanna's optimistic readers.
Thank you for your humor, charm, compassion, and the sharp barbs. it has been fun this season. again thank you.
Have you ever wondered why people are so afraid to say these very words of joy and prosperity? I guess there is something to political craziness running a muck.
MERRY CHRISTMAS!!
Comment by Static Lines — December 24, 2008 @ 1:11 am
A friend told me where there is anger, there is an ocean of love to follow, and for me it was so. Lets us pray that the anger/fear that many enbrace will be replaced with love/peace, a requirement for healing this world. Peace is not passive as many thing, it is won after much stife, and made much more precious for the effort.
Comment by Dona Wheeler — December 24, 2008 @ 5:11 am
Thank for the past year Shanna and merry christmas.
Comment by charlie — December 24, 2008 @ 8:31 am
A Beautiful message, Shanna.
Connecting as we do through your blog has the power to change, inspire and even unite those with differing opinions -- who respectfully (in most cases) agree to disagree. One moment in our day spent reading or posting can change the way we view the world. We agree. We disagree. We clash. We grumble. We laugh. We poke fun. At the end of the year, We realize: In one way or another, We learned a few things and We made a difference.
In whatever way you choose to celebrate or honor your beliefs and traditions at this time of year, I wish ALL "In The Flow" bloggers the blessings of the season. It has been a most enjoyable year joining you here! You made a difference to ME.
Comment by Ms. Goldenwillow — December 24, 2008 @ 4:52 pm
and to all, a Good Night
Comment by Randy the Shoe man — December 24, 2008 @ 8:37 pm
Nice message, and I hope you all had a joyous holiday. I look forward to another year in which we all collaborate to "solve" the problems of our world. Regardless of one's views or political persuasions, I'm thankful for this forum and for all who care enough to contribute their thoughts, especially Shanna. I've learned a lot from her and from most of the folks who visit the site. Happy New Year, all.
Comment by Mike — December 26, 2008 @ 2:41 am
Static,
"Optimistic readers"? I hope you named me, then used "optimistic readers" as an "and-the-rest". My wife would be first to tell you I am by *no* means optimistic. I have always been the eternal pessimist.
But I'm optimistic that you had a great holiday, and are looking forward to the new year!
Hope everyone is enjoying their time somehow. We do enjoy this time of year, as we get to visit with our families.
Comment by Ed S. — December 26, 2008 @ 7:59 pm