Christmas is a  busy season of shopping, decorating, and baking.  The thoughts and preparations for Santa and family monopolize our days.  But once the last gift is opened, the leftovers put away, we’re on to the next thing, New Years resolutions.

As the year comes to a close, we reflect on last years accomplishments, or lack there of, and the promises we will make for the new year. We write them down, share them with family and friends, post them on Facebook and Twitter, hoping for accountability. We all want to be better people, better writers, parents, and citizens. My prayer for all of us is we shall succeed.

This past year has been tumultuous, particularly, in our country. Division is rampant. People feel disheartened and distrustful. For me, it represents a low point for our nation. But, I am confident the tide will turn and we as families and citizens will unite.

As we gather around the tree and banquet table this Christmas, let us remember the less fortunate, the troubled, those who are hurting and in despair. May one of our resolutions, for 2015, be more compassion for others. As we do not know what burdens they carry.

Let us remember the true reason for Christmas, a season of love and redemption, for all of us.

Thank you for stopping by the Cow Pasture and I wish for you and your family a very Merry Christmas and prosperous New Year.