Christmas is my favorite time of year! I know that it's not celebrated in many countries, but it is the most important holiday for me. The commercialism and busyness in the West surrounding Christmas is extremely disturbing. I don't want Christmas to become a cheesy, meaningless holiday - I want everyone around the world to know it's joy.

Here is a passage from the holy book written by the prophet Isaiah that is meaningful to me during this time:

The people walking in darkness
have seen a great light;
on those living in the land
of the shadow of death
a light has dawned.
You have shattered
the yoke that burdens them,
the bar across their shoulders,
the rod of their oppressor.
For to us a child is born,
to us a son is given,
and the government
will be on his shoulders.
And he will be called
Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God,
Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.
Of the increase of his government and peace
there will be no end.
He will reign on David's throne
and over his kingdom,
establishing it and upholding it
with justice and righteousness
from that time on and forever.
The zeal of the Lord Almighty
will accomplish this.
(Isaiah 9:2-7, the Old Testament, the Bible).

Wishing you a wonderful Christmas even in this difficult world, clarita