Saturday, 05 December 2009
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Currently
The Spirit of Christmas
By Ray Charles
see relatedSeason's Greetings
I just love it when the holiday season comes around. More people jump on the "friendly" bandwagon. We are more willing to speak to strangers in December. We greet each other with "Merry Christmas" or "Happy Holidays" as we come and go. I suppose the words roll off our tongues easier and more comfortably. Gives us an excuse to reach out to those we don't know when we share the season of love and joy.
I'm one of those friendly folks all year. I smile to myself when I say "Good morning" to a stranger in passing. I like how they respond with a startled "Oh good morning." They look at me like I'm familiar, then as they pass by me, they realize that they don't know me at all and give me a second look with a big question mark in their eyes. Sizing me up maybe, to figure out why I would greet them or decide if I'm a loony tuney. In December, I'm not considered strange at all. In fact I can work it right up through New Years day and get a clear, happy smile and response. January 2nd? Back to the questioning look from many folk. It doesn't stop me though.
Tis the season to consider where we find our spirit. Mine is not found in shopping malls. It does not hang out with commercialism. It does not rest on a certain present under the tree. Nope! My spirit is more in the music and the message of the season. I love the idea that the birth of a babe so long ago brought great hope to a world. Could be why I greet new born babies with the same wonder and welcoming. We all have that spark inside. We all can be an answer to a tired or weary moment with our positive spirit mixed in to bring a uplifting energy into the circle. I guess that's who I'm greeting all year through. The child that lives within us forever.
I took these photos at a friend's home, who I reconnected with this year. She has love, and spirit, and creativity inside her that she's willing to share. She's fun and open minded toward all whom she meets. She speaks to strangers too. She may just be the best gift to me this year. The weekly photo challenge is going to last through December. Join the fun or check it out and enjoy the visuals. Thanks to PhotoGraphics for suggesting it.
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Comments (54)
It's a good topic, I like it. And your pictures convey a lot of it! :) Happy Christmas season!!
So, I love the doll with the guitar in the tree. That's the best. :0)
@guestbrief - And we're off and over flowing with spirit Rhonda! Hugs to YOU!
@ccarothers - It's Elvis!
I so connect with "we all have that spark inside" ...
@windupherskirt - You truly ARE a sister from another mother. (pats heart and points to you)
@Jaynebug - indeed ... if i wore a hat, i'd tip it fer ya ...
@windupherskirt - (tips hat) for the two of us!
I also greet total strangers on the street, and just love the looks I get. Merry Christmas to you and yours :)
she sounds like a wonderful gift... and i
both the hat dudes.
@Irish_Russian -
Spreading the joy in many corners of the world. Here's to the "greeters" (clinks "drink of choice" glasses) Merry Christmas to you too!
@bumblefish - We set that one up. She's going to use it for her Christmas card. She's the gift that keeps on giving. Top of the season to you.
"Gives us an excuse to reach out to those we don't know when we share the season of love and joy. " - Well said.
I embrace this type of spirit every day of the year, but unfortunately, am often met with adversity from many people. They look at me with mistrust like they're trying to figure out what planet I'm from, or maybe wondering if they should call security.
It doesn't sway me though. I was taught at a very early age, many (at the time) useful lessons; in this case politeness. I am delighted when it is reciprocated, which happens most of the time. When sometimes my smile is met with animosity, it does not dishearten me; instead I just smile more. Eventually the person comes around. The next time I see this person, they greet ME with a smile and a friendly word. What goes around, comes around. Excuse me for being politically incorrect, but may I wish you a Merry Christmas. Happy holidays doesn't roll off my tongue very easily. Sorry, I'm just old and set in my ways. I love your message and agree with it wholeheartedly. I wish there were more people like you around. God's blessings to you as you "follow the Son".
I love the last photo! The whole post has me smiling.... Good Morning!
All those folks in California don't know how lucky they are to have you around! I think that, here in xangaland, we do. Yay for the child within us! Peace
I am one who speaks to strangers as well. Found it more of a challenge while living in upstate/central NY for ten years. But since moving to Oklahoma~ that spirit seems to flow year round here. They embrace my sparkle. lol
I like the way you think. Tis the season of joy and we should spread it around. Happy Sunday friend.
Your posts always make me smile.
@Zeal4living - Thanks Zeal4man! The season of love and joy has no limits. (pats heart and points to you)
@sandburm - Merry Christmas. The lesson we learned as children to "greet" others has always lived and rejoiced in my heart. It will never leave me. Thank you for being such a fine friend here in Xangaland.
@murisopsis - Good Morning to YOU! Aren't those two fabulous?
@WildWomanOfTheWest - Sparkle embracers? Amen to that! Have a joyous day!
@Celtic_Wandering - And a wonderful day to you too. The postive exchange between us creates more and more and more.
@WakeUpLaughing - Thanks Bubbles. Hugs and smiles "streaming" your way!
@shellisland - Yay! For that child indeed! I'm so grateful for you too Mary Sue. Peace for all!
My sentiments exactly. The Christmas spirit should be spread around every day of the year. I wish more people would realize this.
I really like the last pic
Happy Sunday, L <3
@Cynsjrl - To you too Cyn. If those two had lived at the same time, what an amazing blend that would be. Keep spreading the joy in your corner and I'll be working it in my corner. We'll meet in the middle some day, eh? (pats heart and points to you)
Thanks for this. I love how you summed it up. And I would bet everything I own that Jesus and the Dali Llama would both enjoy your photo. This is the season that reminds us what our lives SHOULD be 365 days a year.
@jacksoncroons - Thank you Jackson. I think they would too. Good company to keep. May this day of the 365 be as warm hearted and thought filled as the next.
Smiling here.
Merry Christmas Lyne!