A feeling of kindness is in the air

Merry Christmas everybody!
It’s the best time of the year. So far the roads are clear and the grass is a cheery Christmas green. I hope it stays that way until everybody gets to where they are going and back home again safely. I think a white Christmas is overrated and when combined with ice, it can be downright dangerous.
There is something about this season that calls us home. No matter the weather, we are compelled to pack up our tokens of affection and travel. Even if we know there will be people there we don’t like, we go anyway.
The shopping has all been done, unless we happen to see a trinket or two that would be perfect for that certain someone. There are presents still to be wrapped because I ran out of tape and kept forgetting to buy more. I have amassed the ingredients for the cookies and other goodies I intend to take with us. Everything is proceeding according to plan.
Of course, this means that something unknown is lurking in the background, just waiting to throw everybody into a tizzy. But for now, things are calm.
There is a certain feeling in the air. No, it’s not impatience at the crowds and the long lines at the checkout lanes. If I had to describe it, I would say it is a feeling of kindness. I see it in the ragged people who man the red kettles. It is also in the cheerful faces of the young girls who take their turns at the kettles.
Kindness is in the eyes of the man who told me I had my credit card upside down when I was puzzled as to why it wouldn’t work. Kindness is found in the cheerful greetings of the people at the drug store whenever I enter the door. Kindness is found in those patiently helping an elderly parent or an unruly child.
For me, this kindness defines Christmas. Jesus told us to love one another and be nice. Sure, that is a simplification but I believe that is the essence of his message. In this season of excess, too much shopping, too much spending, too much of everything, we take to heart that simple message of love.
I feel sad for those followers of other religions whose message is hatred. There is too much strife in the world for us to add to it in the name of a god. I am thankful that most religions and most gods advocate love and acceptance. Perhaps it is because love and acceptance are necessary to our well-being?
Whatever the reason, I am pleased to be part of this over-the-top birthday party that we throw for Jesus. I love all the bright lights, the decorations, and everything about Christmas. I enjoy singing the old familiar carols. I like ugly sweaters and holiday necklaces. I like having an excuse to shop for those I love, even if I don’t have a clue what they would like. I like the aroma of evergreen trees. I like the excuse to buy more plants, especially the Christmas cacti that compete with other holiday offerings to jump into my cart. I even like to shop for cat toys that Gracie will sniff once then ignore.
I cherish knowing that the family will be together on this most special of days. Our families have changed throughout the years. Many members are no longer with us. I like to think they are having their own party in the afterlife. The ones who are still here can look forward to presents, too much food and lots of stories, all punctuated by copious laughter.
I hope your Christmas is all that you want it to be. I wish you safe travels on your way to wherever you call home. Merry Christmas from me to you.