Merry Christmas!

A couple of weeks ago my mother sent all of her children a letter in her Christmas card announcing she would not be buying any of us gifts this year; spouses and grandchildren included. No, she wasn't mad at us or stumped as to what to give us this year.

Her letter explained that she loves us all very much, is very proud of us and extremely thankful that we are all so abundantly blessed. She went on to explain that her heart was telling her the right thing to do was to give the money she would have spent on presents for us to those less fortunate this holiday season.

When I read the letter to my boys, ages 12 and 10, I wondered what their reactions to the news would be. Would they be disappointed there wouldn't be a new video game or a jersey from their favorite team under the tree from Grandma this year? Or would they understand the message in my mother's heart? After I finished reading the letter they both looked at me, and without missing a beat said "Grandma's right, we are blessed. That's a great idea."

My heart was thankful for my mother's giving spirit and for teaching my children the true meaning of Christmas; it is better to give than to receive.

Merry Christmas to all!

Love, Gail