[Carry_Okie]

Thank you redrock. Spent last evening listening to the 1951 recording of Amahl and the Night Visitors, a performance that brings joy to the heart and tears to your eyes: power in sweetness, depth in the mundane, the nobility of the helpless, heartbreaking and uplifting.

Christ may have been born some other time of year (some say Shavuot), and yes Christmas falls on a pagan feast day, but if it isn't a good thing that a third of the world pauses to remember that we were given a Savior, then there isn't any good left. It's everything from bell-ringers, to singing children, to families remembering that they love each other. It brings out some of the best and a bit of the worst in some, but on whole it amplifies what is good in who we are as a culture. May we never forget how we are blessed with the gift of salvation.

May each of you have a wonderful Christmas,

Mark

[SierraWasp]

Thank you Mark. God bless you and you’re precious loved ones!!!

[red irish]

Amen!

[Amerigomag]

Merry Christmas Mark to you and the girls.

I enjoy the ritual. The family unites from distant places and we're whole again for the moment. The obligatory Christmas eve service adds just enough discipline to set a positive tone for the ensuing 24 hours.

Tis the season!

[Libertina]

A wonderful ping from you! What a wonderful day here in Washington, and I hope you and your special girls are as happy. May God fill your 2008 with abundance, joy, and answered prayers. Merry Christmas Carry-Okie!