This Time Of Year

   
     This time of year, the days leading up to Christmas, reveal our values.  Happiness is at the top of the list.  A child's happiness revolves around getting new playthings, and therefore a parent's happiness revolves around presenting these gifts.  We exchange gifts with family and friends. Maturity provides the value of better to give than receive.
     Recreating traditions is valued by many.  Thinking about events in our childhood plus the activities of earlier generations keeps memories alive and adds to family history.   When we are long gone, we want our children and grandchildren to fondly remember us.  Traditions can serve these purposes.
     Another value is spending family time together.  Our school vacations are scheduled to allow for travel and visits.  Many families live miles away from each other, so Christmas becomes a time for reunion.  Wintertime, however, is not the best time to travel because of possible weather  conditions.
     This time of year, we want to lift up our spirits and the spirits of others.  Many people literally light up their lives from decorations in the front yard to their Christmas trees inside.  Our cities even light up the streets with holiday motifs.  Malls and shops use decor and music to motivate their customers.  Many people get into the Christmas spirit by reinforcing their religious beliefs, attending annual parties, and participating in and viewing holiday performances.
     The last thing anyone wants to do is detract from the way people celebrate this time of year, but as we enjoy the season, perhaps we need to broaden our perspective.  For whatever reasons, many people are not happy during this time even when they try to go through the motions. Thousands of people around the world are trying to survive the hardships of war or the horrible political situations of their countries.  Their only happiness may be to obtain shelter, food, and medical care.  In our own country, many  people are homeless, have no meaningful family ties or adequate finances.  Some parents have more children than they can afford.  Many people are suffering from physical, mental, and emotional problems.  Some people do not share the religion that prevails in the US, and December 25 is just another day.
   As we live in our little corner of the world, within our own family and culture, as we expend so much  time, energy, and money on our holidays,  we may need to think about what we are doing and why we are doing it.  After all, no matter how well we multitask, our resources have limits.   Decisions need to made according to what is essential and what is not.
     Enjoy the happiness and family time of the holidays.  Create happiness for yourselves and others everyday of the year.