My Year In 100 Words

I’m filled with gratitude for how my year has held so many beautiful experiences: all of them have to do with people — I can’t live fully in isolation. A trip to Whistler, BC or a tour of four baseball stadiums in four days is nice, but it’s awesome with a great friend. My Pilgrim Man CD released a series of beautiful exchanges with like-minded travelers. Filming “1 Message” with AKA and the crew was an honor. I survived the flood, a couple snowstorms, and a half marathon, but my dog’s cancer at year’s end broke my heart. Still, hope reigns.

What Makes Christmas Great?

Christmas is a crazy, beautiful time of year. I love listening to carols, especially the old classics. I also love looking at lights and elaborate decorations. I also love time together with family and friends. But looking back over the multitudes of Christmases, the best part has always been the hope of what presents I might get.

I loved making wish lists as a kid. Going through the big Sears toy catalog and picking out what looked the most awesome. I didn't always get what I wanted, even though I admit I was completely spoiled. I got more than I really needed, certainly.

I would spend most of December trying to find hidden boxes throughout the house...hidden in closets, or under beds. And then when gifts would be set out under the tree, I would shake and rattle the wrapped boxes, trying to determine the contents.

When I try to put profound, grown-up words on what makes Christmas great, I come up with this: Christmas is great knowing that someone who loves you, is planning something special, specifically with your joy in mind. They are preparing something for you - to bring you happiness. This to me, is HOPE. The hope that someone who loves me is preparing something special for me - specifically with my joy in mind.

Still I have to admit that as I get older, I pretend it doesn't matter so much that I didn't get anything good for Christmas. "Oh socks! I love them! This sweater is beautiful - it's so soft!" But I can't escape the ache - the feeling that there should be something more. Something more in line with my heart's deepest longings. It's not greed...it's HOPE!!

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