It’s December - and Christmas

It’s that lime of year when “getting presents” fills the to-do list, Christmas music fills the airwaves, Christmas specials fill the TV guide, and a general feeling of sharing and well-wishing fills each of us as we greet each other.

“Have a great holiday season”, “Merry Christmas”, “Happy Holidays”

Heard often throughout the day, regardless of who we encounter. A stranger at a gas station, a friend along the street,. It matters not - we share our well-wishing with eagerness.

What did Alfie believe?

“Oh, Alfie believed in Christmas all right, he was full of Christmas cheer.

All of each and every day and all throughout the year.”

(John Denver, “Alfie, the Christmas Tree”)

Can we share that feeling year round?

If we can be so cheerful and well-wishing in December, let that great feeling not simply disperse over the dam and downstream in the days ahead.

Rather, just think if each of us, in our own way, could be like Alfie and be full of Christmas cheer each and every day, all throughout the year.

Think of the impact we would each have on one another, and in our community - regardless of our politics. Maybe then we will discover what is really most important.

Happy Holidays, and a great 2026

With that thought, I wish you and your family and friends a wonderful holiday season, and a safe and enjoyable 2026.

Happy Holidays (every day!)

Drake Fleege