It is that time of year...

It is that time of year when the cold nips at your nose and toes and you notice the local mall parking lot filling up with cars as the work day unfolds. It's that time when retailers are crossing their fingers to unfold all of their inventory that will soon be a present, gift, or accent in a home. Christmas trees are finding their way to the grocery store and that special ornament is waiting to be chosen to adorn a tree in a home where laughter and food will abound in making memories of yet another Christmas Season. This year may be different than those in past years. Money is no longer that commodity in which we can loosely let go and say, "I can make more." Every year our family gives of our time and our money for families in need and I am sure we will do the same here in our new city of Bowling Green. In Atlanta, it was about feeding the homeless on a side street until we had no food left to give out. Handing down old coats and shoes to make those let fortunate warm for yet another cold season until the sun can warm them naturally. I am thankful this year that I once again have security, food in my stomach, and lots of love surrounding me. I find that during these times those that are less fortunate for any reason seems to tug on my heart. Taking the everyday comforts for granted is what my daily cross is pounding on my heart. I have all that is needed to survive and extra to keep me entertained. I also think about the families that last season they were in their dream home they worked so hard for and this year are finding that they lost it due to the economic times of losing their job not being able to find another one that supported their economic status. Times are changing and we have become more aware of what is truly important. It is family. Funny how hard times really allow us to "see" our family in a different light that we once did not truly view before. So, this Christmas Season for our family will be about giving back. We will not spend a great deal on each other but take time to spend it with others that depend on that warm meal, used coat, and maybe a cot to sleep on for a night. This year, I am once again blessed to have all I want and things I think I want and throw aside. I am blessed because my family is important and memories of laughter, smiles, and that special hug go a long way for me. As I age it is not the "gift" under the tree that matters, but the person sitting at my table and sharing a memory that will live far beyond a tangible gift.
Yes, I am blessed. Not lucky...but oh so blessed.