holiday cheer

I secretly would love to get on a soap box every once in a while, but my lowly place as a customer service representative doesn't really allow me to do this in any of my daily interactions. But, if I could, here is what I would say:

1. As privileged folks living on this planet, I would like to see the people around me show a bit more love. When you live a life as comfortable as ours, you are blessed with the ability to open your heart to other human beings and give - anything, time, money, a smile. Please consider passing one of these along.

2. Life is not a fight - for many of us, at least. I know, living in a big city where there are long lines and traffic and lots of demand for a limited supply of things, it is easy to forget that we are all just trying to survive. Don't fight it, go with it - accept the stress, rise above it, move on. Think about and celebrate what you do have - health, life, something to eat, internet access...

3. Most importantly, people, there is a war going on. Please, please, do not forget this. There is pain and conflict and suffering, and people in the thickest throes of it are finding ways to be joyful this holiday season. Let's take a step back and consider our problems in this light.

These days are blessed and short. Let's fill them with joy, not stress. Ok?