This year the Holiday Season is taking place with the backdrop of an Impeachment Inquiry + unrelenting disturbing news. The plight of refugees around the world + on our own border weigh heavily on our hearts. The clarion call of Climate Change protests, remind us that the future of our planet is at risk. Here in the Bay Area, as in so many places, the suffering of the homeless is something we witness every day. Each of our daily lives are full of inevitable challenges.

Yet in the midst of it all we find reasons to celebrate! We begin by giving thanks at Thanksgiving, gathering round to share in our bounty. Giving Tuesday means more to us than Cyber Monday. The Winter Solstice, Hanukah, Kwanza, Ramadan + Christmas all share the same light of love.

We delight in watching the children enjoy the festivities. We reach out to family + friends we hold dear. A gift well chosen + given gives us joy. Remembering those less fortunate than ourselves takes on more meaning. Abundant cheer + kindness are evident. We celebrate with lights, decorations, parties, food, drink + gifts.

Just as the events of the world can obscure peace + love, the hubbub of the holidays can obscure what we are really celebrating. Generations before us + generations to follow will continue to celebrate the holidays because they provide us with a powerful reminder of our shared humanity. Despite whatever may be happening in the world around us goodness always remains within us as does the goodwill of mankind.

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