In years gone by, I’ve used this space to hand out Christmas gifts to athletes in the local, national and international world of sports, both kudos and lumps of coal.
But, given the events of the past 12 months, when I have seen friends and co-workers lose their jobs as a result of the economic upheaval, or endure personal tragedy, now is not a time to be funny or flippant.
It’s a time to give thanks for all the good things we enjoy in life, no matter how small.
The year 2009 allowed me to reconnect with great people I hadn’t seen in years, people who truly have enriched my life. To them all, I say thanks.
Those of you who are animal lovers and pet owners know how much Fido and Fluffy truly make life so much more enjoyable. My feline buddy, the often-chronicled Dale, turned 14 earlier this year and still makes me smile every day, As he gets older, I cherish my time with him even more, because I know “Bear” (his nickname) won’t always be there.
Combined with the playful antics of his adopted brother Sylvester, the pair are a handful and capable of mischief of the highest order.
At this time of year, family is everything, and it is wonderful to still have my dad in my life, still trucking along and enjoying good health at age 86. He inspires me every day, even though he doesn’t always realize it.
Never blessed with brothers and sisters, I still take comfort in the great friends I have in my life. According to my Facebook page, I now have something like 40 friends, but that’s just the tip of the iceberg.
A special friend is someone who will take time to stop and wave or smile when they make eye contact with you in a crowded room.
A special friend is someone who will jump on a plane to visit you when your health is in danger. A special friend is someone who sends you a simple text message like “I miss u” when they know you could use a smile.
No, Christmas isn’t about driving to the mall to buy a present for Uncle Bob or Aunt Gertrude, being deathly afraid about what they’ll think of you if you don’t get them something.
I still remember the two greatest gifts I ever got for Christmas. One was a handcrafted card from the son of a close friend, as simple and stunning as any big-ticket item you could by.
The other was the time my dad drove through wicked winter weather to Toronto on Christmas Eve to bring me home for 72 hours, all so I wouldn’t have to spend Christmas Day in the Hospital for Sick Children.
As I kid, I don’t think I ever thanked him enough for doing that.
Those are the moments that make Christmas special.
To you and your family, it is my hope that you enjoy abundant health and happiness this Yuletide season. Merry Christmas and, above all else, take a moment to count your blessings.
You’ll discover quickly just how lucky you really are.
mdodd@simcoe.com
