CHRISTMAS...

I've never been a huge fan of Christmas. It is nothing personal, if this is your favorite holiday of the year.... go big and enjoy every minute.

The count downs, the days leading up to Christmas, the malls, shops, lights, and cheesy movies, it's just too much. It's so over commercialized and the true meaning behind the day kinda disappear between the buzz of it all.

I aways think of a dog chained to a poll somewhere in the heat with dry kibble or feral trying to find food to produce enough milk for her kittens. The crowded shelters. Once adored pets, now not so lucky to share a home with an interactive family.

The young boy or girl who dream of that special toy, but mom and dad just can't afford it. The individual who wants to be with family but catch that last shift for some extra overtime to make rent month-end. The person who lost a partner and facing the day alone. We tend to push these hard realities in the background.

Please be kind, to both animal and human, it's been a long and hard year all around. If you can, give openly and share willingly. A little patience and love go a long way. Either way the blessing will find its way back to you seven-fold.

"The Grinch didn't hate Christmas, he hated the hypocrisy of people, reminding us to reflect love, kindness, and authenticity in our hearts." Author Unknown