First Candle in Advent...Thoughts

This week I got my first email warning me about keeping Christ in Christmas. It came in the form of a rock and roll video from YouTube.com that revved up the Spirit of greetings during the holiday season. I understand the need for this as a reminder but I don't really agree with the extreme emphasis. I don't mind phrases like Happy Holidays, most of the time I'm happy someone says something that nice during the hustle and bustle of these days of preparation. Besides, there are other holidays that occur while we celebrate Christmas. I already heard my first Merry Christmas from one of my doctors since I won't see him until early next year. It astonished me since I know that personally he believes this season has been programmed to keep the poor feeling poor and in their place. But it seemed genuine and I knew the Holidays were upon us.

At home, there are two neighbors who already have decorated, one has the tree up and window lights; the other has 5 different inflatable decorations in their yard so that there is no room to walk there. I'm a slow starter and just got my fall decorations down yesterday. I did have the forethought to order a Christmas book of music for piano, voice, and guitar. It arrived yesterday and has every Christmas song I could want and also one special song for Jesus. I put it on my digital piano and slowly my inner feelings began to perk up as I realized I could enjoy this entire Advent season by playing and singing these songs. For now it was much better than a wreath or any window lights I could find. My inner child rejoiced and is overjoyed at the thought of wonderful holiday music spilling out into the house.

Good news! The Feds have sued the shipping company and the pilot of the dastardly boat that spilled the evil oil into the Sanctuary waters. At least they will have to pay for all their damages.