It came a flow’ret bright, amid the cold of winter

by chuckofish

Last week I ordered my Christmas cards and yesterday I spent several hours working on my Christmas letter. The year is skiing by. Well, it is a good exercise to review the year and look at the highlights. Indeed it is, but it is truly in the every day happenings that we see how blessed we are.

Anne was on a tear again and I can relate. “Can I just check out now and not bother to try to endure the next month? Is there a reason for me to continue to participate in modern life? Is there a cabin in the woods I can retreat into and not emerge until some time in Lent?” But I really think it would be better for her if she just stopped reading The New York Times. I stopped years ago. Why make yourself crazy?

In view of this, I think this post by Tim Challies is relevant. “This is something I have been training myself to do in life—to look away from what is not mine to look at. There is so much in life that does not concern me, so much that may draw my eyes or engage my curiosity but is not for me to gaze at or fixate on, not for me to ponder or form opinions about.”

This made me laugh:

…and so did this:

And go ahead, listen to some Christmas music:

P.S. My dear friend Gary is having surgery this morning for an aggressive type of cancer and prayers for his recovery would be much appreciated.

Almighty God, our heavenly Father, graciously comfort your servant in his suffering, and bless the means used for his cure. Though at times he may be afraid, fill his heart with confidence that he may yet put his trust in you; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

–BCP