Christmas has so many meanings. For some, it is a religious holiday and the commercial side is distasteful. For others, it is a time to show love for our families and friends by choosing the perfect gifts. For yet others, it is the time when their commercial enterprise finally shows a profit! Unfortunately, for some it is a time for regret and sadness, because they are unable to provide even basic necessities for their families.

I choose to think of it as a time for a little extra kindness and understanding. A time to show love for our families and those around us by making a little extra effort - be it baking little sister's favorite cookies, or volunteering some time at a food bank, or donating gifts to those less fortunate, or merely smiling a little more and wishing good cheer to all we meet.

The next step is to carry that feeling throughout the year...

for "The Rose" and here for "The Bell."

The authors are listed as "unknown" but whoever they are, I thank them.

More!

The next one made me shed a tear or two, and it isn't exactly a Christmas story, but if you've lost a loved one and are missing them this Christmas, I think you'll love it. Here's the story entitled Information Please.

If you believe, your heart will be warmed when you read about George.

And if you're looking for love, try this short tale of a newspaper ad.

Now grab a hankie - and read the story I found in my in-box this morning: Shotgun Christmas.

Good stuff keeps arriving...

A Christmas Poem and Wish for Grannies

A Different Kind of Christmas Poem - in Honor of our Military

Christmas Shopping Ideas - they'll love your choices!

More Gifts for kids

Gifts especially for writers

Rustic, hand-crafted gifts for the home

Just added: Books for Natural Health Entusiasts!

I wish you a Merry Christmas