The author of this is "Anonymous", but I wish I had written it.  I value this as much as I hold it to be true, and am thankful it was sent to me:

Affirmations of Christmas

I BELIEVE that Christmas is more than a time for parties and ornaments; it is a time for remembering Christ and the incarnation of God's love in human flesh.

I BELIEVE there are gifts more important than the ones under the Christmas tree; the things we teach our children, the way we share ourselves with friends, and the industry with which we set about reshaping the world in our time.

I BELIEVE that the finest carols are often sung by the poorest voices; from hearts made warm by the wonder of the season.

I BELIEVE in the angel's message that we should not be afraid - that the Child of Bethlehem is able to overcome all anxieties and insecurities.

I BELIEVE in prayer and quietness as a way of appropriating Christmas - that if I wait in silence I will experience the presence of the one born in the manger, for he lives today as surely as he lived then.

I BELIEVE in going away from Christmas as the wise men went:  "another way".  I want to be different when these days are past - more centered, more thoughtful, more caring.

AND I BELIEVE God will help me.  Amen!

I wish all readers of this blog the blessings of the Christmas Season that last all year!