Christmas has always been my favorite holiday. What kid doesn’t love the twinkling lights, the tree covered in bits and baubles, and (of course) the presents that awaited on Christmas morning? As an adult, I still look forward to this time of year.

It’s the spirit.

My mom made tons of holiday treats—yogurt dipped pretzels, peanut butter fudge, and her famous chocolate no-bake cookies—and I, her assistant elf, helped deliver the goodies to family like Santa in his sleigh. We sat a spell, cracking jokes and telling stories, then headed to our next delivery for more of the same. We carried a spirit of giving, fellowship, and gratitude.

This time of year, we have fun. We give. We look forward to the promise a new year can bring. We intend; we manifest; we resolve.

I wish we kept the spirit all year long. Especially now, as so much tragedy unfolds in the world. 

May we all move forward with positive intent and gracious hearts. May we demonstrate with our actions the age old adage “’tis better to give than to receive.” May we love our neighbors as we love ourselves, and love ourselves fiercely.