Lessons I Have Learned:  As I mature, I have noticed my priorities changing from gadgets to relationships.  When I was very young, at this time of year, my focus was on what I was going to get for Christmas.  I made sure that all the “important people” knew what I wanted.  Then when I opened my presents Christmas Day, I tore off the wrapping papers while my heart pounded with excitement.  If I got what I wanted, I went miles beyond excited.

As the years passed, I noticed the excitement over things passed as well.  I didn’t get many heart-stopping presents and my haul at the end of the frenzy was quite small.  The focus switched over to the younger ones.  And that was ok.  It was fun watching their reaction as they opened things.  I will never forget my grand daughter’s reaction to a gorgeous little rug she received.  She rolled around on it!

Now, even if I should get a polka-dotted tie my heart is full.  I feel a pleasant warmth because I have my family around me.   Having lost loved ones over the years, I have come to regard quality time with family as much more precious than any gadget.

My perspective goes even further these days.  As I look around the world and see all the areas of chaos and strife, I believe I am looking more and more to the true meaning of Christmas.  I find myself hoping and praying for quality in the relationships of every family on earth and between nations and people of every religion.  What a gift that would be for the world this Christmas.  Am I the only one who wants this?