Warmest Wishes!

Now on Christmas Eve as darkness settles in, I listen to some seasonal music and get a little sentimental. There is magic in this night, whatever anyone says. True, for some religions, the date has no significance, but very few cultures do not recognize the mid-point of the winter season, measured by the sun, and festivities abound at this time of year. For me, the Midwinter Solstice and Christmas both hold special meaning and the modern New Year's Eve and Day do as well. Thus, I wish all my friends and family, scattered around the country as they are, the warmest and most sincere love and wishes from my heart on this season.

At least in my heart, I can sit by a roaring fire whose light and heat keep the winter chill and darkness at bay while joyful company surrounds me, talking and singing and simply enjoying the companionship. We may lift a glass or a cup and toast the season, our circle and our hopes for the future. Perhaps we recall celebrations past and feel a nostalgia for those bygone days.

Perhaps they were simpler and less fraught with anxiety and peril than the present. Who can say; I suppose whether you fear terrorists, any era's war or attack by some enemy of primitive days all are or were deeply fearful and the shelter, the fire and the company give at least some sense of security. Yet we still hold hope and faith and look ahead to brighter and better days. May that hope and faith sustain each of you as you look toward the future. Go in peace and harmony!