Journal

My first Christmas in America  I was shocked to find Christmas trees up in November and early December, but I chalked it up to cultural differences. But as December 12th came round and people started counting down the "Twelve Days of Christmas", I found myself frustrated with the realization that a rich historic tradition had essentially become a commercial gimmick, totally separated from how it was and still is celebrated across Christendom.  

One thing I love about Halloween is it has a unique ability to gather people together. As we find ourselves surrounded by the hustle and bustle of modern life, we often forget the beauty of simpler days, when Halloween was about gathering with friends and neighbors. Perhaps we should look back at earlier times, to rekindle a vintage Halloween spirit that emphasizes togetherness in the way it once did.

My father is always thinking of what he can do for others, and he rarely ever asks for anything himself. With Father’s Day coming up, it can be difficult to know what to get him to show my appreciation.

Look for ways to improve the overall quality of his life, even if it’s a seemingly small part of his life. Getting him something that is functional and useful, can turn a small moment in his life into a meaningful experience each day.