Be Merry, Be Bright!

This year I ordered Christmas Cards on-line and was amazed at the choices available.  Where in the world to begin?  Now, when faced with multiple choices, I usually go for more than one, which I did...but, my favorite message on all of the cards was a simple reminder...a sort of command...to myself.  BE MERRY, BE BRIGHT!  In the hustle and bustle and commercialism of Christmas I have decided to make BE MERRY, BE BRIGHT! my 2010 Christmas Code to myself....in those things large and those things small. 

There are so many situations that come to mind that can be what I call "joy-suckers".  They can zap me of my energy and happiness in a heartbeat, if I let them.  Two that come to mind immediately are traffic surrounding the malls and major shopping areas, and the lines in the stores.  Then there are also the baking catastrophes...the traditional family honey cookies with the dough made minus the sugar...ugh!  And the banana bread left in the oven too long because I was visiting with my neighbor...oops!  I can't leave out the impending 12 hour drive to visit the relatives.  (Don't mistake me here...it isn't the family visit that requires my attitude adjustment, just the drive time.)  I imagine you all could list a few other items that just seem to drag you down during what is supposed to be our most joyous time of year.

BE MERRY, BE BRIGHT! is a choice I can make.  It is a choice to focus on that which is in my control. It is a choice to relax and enjoy each other.  It is a choice to look around me and see the everyday Christmas moments versus looking through or past them.  It is a choice to focus on what really matters. 
It is a choice to focus on the gift of Christ and the celebration of His birth.    It is a choice to share His love and feel His peace. 
 
May you feel the joy of Christmas throughout this busy season and share that love with all of those around you.  For unto you is borth this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord.  Luke 2:11

Blessings and Merry Christmas!  BE MERRY, BE BRIGHT!