I JUST SAW CHRISTMAS!

I just saw Christmas... 

I was at the grocery store this Christmas eve, along with a million other shoppers.  The store clerk in my “less than 10” line looked a bit stressed.  He usually does.  I know from things that I have overheard that life is a bit hard for his family.  

The gentleman in front of me lined up his purchases, nothing exorbitant, just some cheese and crackers, some breakfast cereal, some milk.  He also asked the clerk for a $40.00 visa card, the kind you buy and have the store fill.  When he was done paying, and had his bags in hand, he handed the Visa card to the clerk, and said, “That is for you. Merry Christmas!” 

The poor clerk’s mouth dropped open, and then a smile appeared, ear to ear, and he reached across the checkout to hug the man. 

Christmas is everywhere.  Not in the trees, or the lights, or the songs.   I see it throughout the year, in the smiles given to strangers, or a kind word spoken.

 I see it in the sacrifice of soldiers fighting for freedom for others, sometimes not even their own countrymen.

 I see it in the committed work of government workers who work long hard hours, receive little compensation but a lot of criticism, and yet continue to work for the poor, because they believe in what they do.

I see it in neighbors who step up to help when someone is in need, even if it is just to baby sit for someone. 

I see it in the nurses and doctors, who work those long hard hours, and receive little in the way of appreciation. 

Yes, Christmas is everywhere, all year long, from January 1 to December 31.  Alive and well in the hearts of men, who remember that baby in the manger, who left his glorious home, to come and dwell among us, and give his life so that we might live. 

This Christmas I hope for all of you a glimpse of that beautiful love that is the heart of Christmas. 

Susie.