Because many of you don't read the newspaper, I thought I would share the inspirational holiday message from the publisher of the Union-Tribune, David Copley.
"As the Civil War raged around him, Henry Wadsworth Longfellow had little reason to be optimistic. His beloved wife had died in a terrible fire, and his son had been seriously injured in battle.
Yet, on Christmas Day in 1864, the renowned American poet courageously penned words of hope that are in hymnbooks of every denomination and on recordings by everyone from Frank Sinatra to Sarah McLachlan:
'I heard the bells on Christmas Day, their old familiar carols play, and wild and sweet the words repeat, of peace on earth, good-will to men.'
Every day's newspaper brings fresh stories of people losing their houses, losing their jobs and more. As the recesssion deepens, our friends and neighbors are struggling to pay their bills and care for their families.
These are extraordinarily difficult times.
Our new president will face untold challenges not just here at home, but beyond our borders, where the instability across the globe foments.
Our collective unease is also voiced by Longfellow:
'And in despair I bowed my head. "There is no peace on earth" I said, "For hate is strong and mocks the song of peace on earth, good-will to men."'
Somehow Christmas Day arrives, with its magic of hope and promise of 'peace on eath.' It forces us to stop and reflect. That's when all the reasons we have to be grateful, even hopeful, resurface.
We have our friends, who are with us through good times and bad; their companionship, assistance and open hearts enrich our daily lives, despite the times.
We have our community--our neighborhood--and its generosity of spirit.
And we have this wonderful place. Is there anywhere on the planet as beautiful as San Diego? We should celebrate its diversity, its unique mix of surfers and scientists, actors and academics, high-tech, biotech and no-tech.
It's been said many times, many ways, but it's worth repeating: We need to take the time--not just today, but every day--to appreciate our surroundings and the people who fill them. To focus on who and what really matter. That reminder is one of the gifts of this holiday.
'Till ringing, singing on its way, the world revolved from night to day, a voice, a chime, a chant sublime, of peace on earth, good-will to men.'"
Wishing you and your family a very Merry Christmas.
Christmas tree on display at the famous department store in Paris, Galerie Lafayette.
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