Several years ago a high school senior wrote to Dear Abby. He explained how he and his single mother lived in poverty until he was in 7th grade. At that time his mom married a “Wonderful, rich man”, since then he has provided everything a boy could need or want, including love, leadership, discipline and all the trappings of a “wealthy life.” As a high school graduation present he offered to pay all his college expenses. The question for Abby, was “How do I thank him for being such a great step-dad, mentor, and now, for college?”
Abby’s response: Be the best student possible, and make him proud he sent you.
We celebrated Thanksgiving a month ago and asked, “How can we thank God for all he has given us?” Rabbi Donniel Hartmanay, in his book, Putting God Second, gives us an answer not unlike Abby’s. By putting God’s other created people first, and God second, we actually put God’s will in its rightful place, FIRST. “As I have loved you, so you should love one another.” John 13:34.
Mother Theresa put it this way. The key to celebrating the love of Christmas is “JOY”. “J” is Jesus, “O” is others, and “Y” is you, (or for me it’s me).
That will be my New Year’s resolution.
Wishing all of you a Merry Christmas and a Joy-filled New Year.
Thanks for the lovely meaningful post, Dr. Par.
Thanks, Jean, hope you had a wonderful Christmas and are looking forward to a great New Year. Par