I haven’t done 6 hours of driving in a day in a while now. Nice to know it’s still a fairly easy task. And the Baltimore beltway up I-95 to Philly is no piece of cake this time of the season. Semi Controlled Chaos at best.
It had been a while taking that route and the speeds seem to have increased a good bit. No, the state hasn’t raised the speed limit, but someone got the message out to the general public that the Indy 500 is now a street race and everyone is invited to participate. Anyway safely up and safely back.
Unfortunately, the trip was for services for my wife’s Aunt who we were close with. The day left me feeling uneasy, uncomfortable, and in a bit of a panic, I saw her husband and the obvious void in his heart and the thought that I might face that someday. I can agree that losing a child has got to be the most painful experience possible but losing your lifelong partner has to be next in line.
Try to enjoy the simple things of the season. The smell of the live Christmas tree. The scents of special dishes everyone cooks and brings to the tables. The sounds of joy and laughter from both young and old. Most will have a short break from the job, be it a day or more.
Step outside, feel that cold brisk air and take a very deep breath to get it in your lungs. If you’re in a colder climate either make a snowball and throw it or dive into a pile of powder fresh snow, no matter how old you are.
If you’re healthy give thanks you haven’t caught any of the numerous bugs and viruses multiplying like rabbits. And of course, acknowledge you have been lucky enough to knock out another year on the calendar.
While sitting in holiday traffic smile and nod to the people stuck in line with you. Hold a door for someone with their hands full of bags. Find it in your heart to help someone less fortunate with some jester of kindness.
When I have to shovel snow 2-3 times a year, I think that it’s not every week like cutting the grass 8 months a year. So that way I’m in a good mood and build a snowman when I’m done.
Whatever it is that helps you find the spirit of the season, get to it and feel better.
Random Thoughts of the Day
- I’ve let too many things get in the way of production.
- Even the strongest families are holding on by a thread? That is what makes them the strongest. They continue to hold on and try.
- Why watch College Football Bowl games when it seems all the best players who are either transferring or going pro are deciding not to play?
