Merry Christmas

[Revtro]

Sorry I've not been around much lately.  I've been keeping extremely busy these days as the church continues to grow and life keeps getting busier and busier.  But I did want to drop in for a minute and wish you all a very merry Christmas.

One of the reasons I've been so busy is that this year our ministry has chosen to focus on what we think is really important about this season.  Rather than get all caught up in celebrations, we've been doing some pretty cool stuff like a toy drive for people who have gone through the homeless shelter we support, gathering food to restock a local food bank, visiting shut-ins, and this past week giving gifts and gift cards for a 17 year old homeless girl that a member of our church has decided to take in.  Being only a week away from Christmas, we felt that we needed to help this family provide an awesome Christmas for this young girl who has nothing but the clothes on her back. 

I'm not sharing this to get our ministry recognition.  I'm sharing it to illustrate how Christmas (and beyond) can be about something so much more gratifying and life-changing.  It's been a cool month.  One of the most awesome moments for me was when we were distributing toys and a mom was at the church picking out the gifts.  When she was finished, she literally broke down and wept with gratitude.  It was amazing to see God touch someone like this and I'll never forget it.

So this Christmas, I'd encourage you to take some time and show someone some special kindness.  And don't be surprised if it changes you even more than it blesses them.  At the end of this past week, when the woman I just told you about left in her car with the presents, I turned to another volunteer and he remarked to me "that's what it's all about".  I couldn't agree more. 

Merry Christmas everyone.  May the love of the Savior fill your home.

[fiker]

I worked with my wife last Christmas at the church where she worked.  We were distributing gifts similar to what you described with similar results.  It was so gratifying.  We also adopted a family in need instead of buying more presents for each other.

[djkimmel]

I haven't done that in a while. Great to see some of you are spreading the cheer for those who might not get any.

Merry Christmas to everyone!! And a Happy New Year to come too!!

[MadWags]

Awesome!

Merry Christmas

[mikesmiph]

Through my work with The Home Depot, I have been in charge of our charitable work for several years. I can attest to the fact of how good it makes you feel to help others in need, both during holiday times and other times as well. I urge others to not forget these people once the holiday is over. They will still need help.
I also want to wish all my fellow members here a wonderful holiday season. Whatever holiday you celebrate.
My life has turned a little upside down for me right now, but I'm going to make it through. At least I have a roof over my head, and warm clothes to wear and food to eat. So many others dont.
Be nice to each other.

[djkimmel]

Amen

[Skulley]

Today was my last day at work until January 3, 2011.  It has always been nice to be employed by one of the big three and have always been thankful for being able to have that time between Christmas and New Years off paid.  Although compared to last year there is a lot of overtime, I am not taking part in it.  I find it more valuable to have that time off to spend with family and friends.  So with that being said, I would like to wish everybody on the forum a very Merry Christmas.  Enjoy your time with your family and take one day during this holiday to go to church and thank God for everything we are able to do and everything we have.  It may not be much that we do have, but we are lucky to be able to do the fishing that we are able to do.  There are a lot less fortunate people out there that don't get to do what we do.  So thank you God for all that we have.  We are very lucky anglers.  Health, Happiness, and Prosperity to all during this holiday season. 

BD               

[Victor Cerabone]

I feel very blessed this year.  I have been able to fish more and accomplish lot's of other non-fishing things too.  I'm planning to fish bigger and better in 2011.

Merry Christmas guys!

Vic