A Christmas wish

By Isabel Danz

​I love sending and receiving cards. If you have ever sent me one, I have it saved in a special box. They are in the same box that I used at my wedding to collect cards.  It may sound odd or even hoarder like behavior, but cards bring me joy! I mention this because I take Christmas card shopping very seriously! Three years ago, I had an unusually hard time finding just the right card. I wanted a card that would be a gift to my Christian and non-Christian friends. The message was important to me, and after looking in a few stores and reading more cards than I wanted to, they all started blending together.  I was at my last store, and I left empty-handed.

I remember walking to my car, thinking maybe I should be less picky, and perhaps a trip to the bookstore would be productive, as I can always find a new book to buy. As it turned out, all good things come from bookstores! I was in line to check out when a box of Christmas cards caught my eye. This was the Christmas card I had been looking for. Or in this case, not looking for, but thankfully stumbled upon.

I feel as though the message from this card is still an important one we all need today. This Christmas card reflects my hopes and prayers this holiday season.

May we break down boundaries, tear down walls, and build on the foundation of goodness inside each of us.
May we look past differences, gain understanding, and embrace acceptance.
May we reach out to each other, rather than resist.
May we be better stewards of the earth, protecting, nurturing, and replenishing the beauties of nature.
May we practice gratitude for all we have, rather than complain about our needs.
May we seek cures for the sick, help for the hungry, and love for the lonely. 
May we share our talents, give our time, and teach our children.
May we hold hope for the future very tenderly in our hearts and do all we can to build for the bright tomorrows.
And may we love with our whole hearts, for that's the only way to love.