OT>. . . . . . . . . . . Holiday Message . . . . . . . . .
I had a blast on Friday night. It was the first time I've ever been in a hospital when someone I knew was having a baby. Our 15 year old girl's best friend, also 15, had a baby boy on the evening of a "blue moon".
Unlike what you may have seen on the "Maury Show", you couldn't pry that baby from the hands of its proud father, a 19 year old, who has been working 18 hour days for the past 8 months in order to properly provide for his family. . . all of whom are doing just fine. They have wedding plans and are certain to make a happy home for the little boy. We have had the pleasure of sharing our home with them numerous times. . . and at Thanksgiving a week before the big day. Our youngest girl witnessed the birth and has been in a euphoric state of shock ever since. I have raised 4 kids . . . 2 into adult age. . the youngest was already 4. But that was the first time I had ever held a newly born baby. So my feet are barely touching the ground when I walk as well.
After church this morning, we are going to see the national touring group of "Cats" for the first time ever. My wife, who I found out a few weeks ago had never seen a musical in person, is running around the house with her feet off the ground as well. I won nearly a whole hog with my target shooting yesterday on a cool sunny day with a bright blue sky. So this weekend has been more fun than usual.
I wanted to say all of that to say this: your family can be your joy. If you have ever lost your joy. Find it. And once you find it. Cherish and keep it. If you are having trouble finding it, look to those with whom you are closest. There are many joys in life. . . spiritual, emotional, material, parental, etc. But never forget that they ALL require practice. Go too long without practicing any one of them and you may find you have lost your joy.
This holiday season I would ask that everyone do an accounting of their joy. If it is missing in one area or another, seek it out and return it. Make that phone call. Invite that person over to your house. Do whatever you must do while there is time enough. Time to forgive. Time to heal. Time to renew. And time to enjoy.
Very happiest of holidays to all my friends online.
Rande Is |
