We need a little Christmas

Or, as my kids say, Chrissolhanakwanzakahsticemas, or Christhanasolkwanzasticekahmas.

At this time of year, we need this.  We need some candles to light up the darkness.  And a blazing fire to provide heat.  We need evergreen trees to remind us that even though all the leaves are gone and the stems appear dead, there is still life in the forests and fields.  We need flying reindeer and tiny elves to bring us magic.  We need friends and family to celebrate together and remind us that even though it is dark and cold outside, we still have each other to care for and love.  We need good food, too much of it sometimes, to remind us that even though nothing seems to be alive outside and growing, we can have full tummies and yummy goodness in our minds and hearts.  We need a tiny baby, cared for by loving parents despite the lack of modern amenities, and welcomed by angels and shepherds and wise men as a harbinger of peace and joy.  Because underneath all that snow, [or despite the clouds and rain], life is beginning again, stirring and turning over and growing.  Spring and sunshine and warmth will return to our world, as it has every year since the beginning of time.  And we need to remember that, and celebrate.  Every single year.

We need to continue to hope for and work towards peace on earth and goodwill to all humankind.

Merry Chrissolhanakwanzakahsticemas, or whatever you celebrate.  Do celebrate, please!