Merry Christmas (or Happy Holidays)

I believe it was a few years ago when I posted about the hullabaloo about saying "Merry Christmas" as opposed to a more PC greeting, "Happy Holidays".

I have a young lady in one of my classes and after a quite friendly and informative discussion, I discovered that her family doesn't celebrate many (for that matter any) of the Christian holidays.  Without divluging any personal information, her family worships a different religion.  When I asked if she could share some more about the what's and how's of her religion, she kindly explained.  Quite simply, she stated, it's not about the gifts; it's about doing work for Him, in His honor.  I was touched by the succint and yet full explanation of this.

Why tell you the story about this person?  She was able to reach into my black crusted heart of tolerance and peel back one of those layers.  I now have a new found respect for those that may not celebrate Christmas, but celebrate His love and ideals in other ways. 

As my sons opened their gifts and my wife hers, I considered what this young person shared with me, and quite frankly smiled.  It's not that I was so proud of myself, but that I was glad to have spent the eleven or so hours in the car driving 667 total miles start to finish to be with loved ones across the state of Texas.

Kris and Alton, I love both you guys.  You took time out of your busy schedules to share a bit of time with me during this hectic season.  Tell Kelley and Danielle (your respective wife) thanks for me as well.

Grandma, I love with all my heart.  I enjoyed your hospitality, but more importantly, your company.  Our conversations remain close to my heart.

Mom, a many thanks.  It was good to see you and the kids and Chris.  As crazy as our times together can be, they are truly priceless.

Nelson, you've shown me proof that change is possible, and in many cases, inevitable.  You told me that this is perhaps the best Christmas in quite a few years.  I think it's a reflection of the changes you've made in your heart that has brought you these rewards.  I love you bro.

So to all of you out there, may you be touched my His grace.

Cheers.

Dancing Teachers

Just a quickie here.

I had the opportunity (chance intervened on this...) to do a bit of work on video, namely having my mini-choir kids taped for a video announcement.

It's here; just make sure that you watch until the last minute for so.

Frosty makes a visit (joke: dancing fat white man).

Happy holidays to you and yours, wherever you are celebrating.

Be safe and merry!

The Mert

Destination Vacation: 600 miles

I'm about to embark on my yearly sojourn, to visit with loved ones across our lovely state of Tejas.

I started this a last year, and it was actually pretty cool. I got to see a number of close ones that I don't see too often without missing my family for too long.

I think that's the best part. In this season, we are often so worried about the various crap that we are going to give to someone or that we might receive. I hate to call it crap as many times people spend agonizing moments analyzing and debating whether to get the citrus- or mango-and-cream scented lotion for their lady friend. We talk about how Christmas (or Hanukkah or any other gift giving occasion) is about being with the ones we love, but Oh, we have to get Soandso a gift too.

Am I guilt of this? Absolutely to a certain extent. I like buying my boys gifts; they are kids. I like to get my wife certain things. My friends know that I like to get them just seemingly random stuff for the fun of it.

But in the end, I would hope that my simple and humble companionship be enough. For me, that's what I want. What other reason do I have to make this sojourn and spend three and a half days away from my boys and wife? As much as I miss them, I enjoy it that much more to see them as I drive up.

And before you are so quick to judge, I teach my boys values. But that's another story...

To you and yours, may the holidays bring love and joy in all its splendor.

Cheers