“No one is required to see Santa Claus.”

— The Conductor, The Polar Express

“Christmas just doesn’t work out for me.”

— Billy

No one is required to see Santa Claus.

We don’t have to give because someone tells us to.

There are no special belief systems necessary to help a friend, a neighbor, or a stranger.

“Fighting” the mall crowds at Christmas is our option. Making cookies, candies, breads, and other special holiday treats is voluntary. Mailing a present to a far-off friend is not an obligation. Sending out a holiday letter is an act of kindness and connection, not compulsory.

To give is always, always, always a choice otherwise it is not a gift. If things aren’t working out, look in your heart. The beauty of the season is there, waiting for you.

On this cold, crisp, partly starry, most beautiful of beautiful Oregon evenings, from my family to yours, I wish you and your loved ones a merry and most wonderful Christmas.

“Just remember, the true spirit of Christmas lies in your heart.”

— Mr. C.

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Made cranberry sauce for our Christmas dinner at the Tigard Good Neighbor Center, helped my wife move a number things, collected some donations to take with us, bought a coffee for a friend. 

There is so much to give on Christmas eve. I can only hope I gave as much as I received.