Many of you saw the pics of Bryan and I at the Bronx Zoo last night, and in NYC at Rockefeller Center, as well as my email of all the beautiful Christmas window displays. The holidays are a wonderful time of year. I'm not looking to change that, or bring anyone down, but I think it's also important to remember that there is another side to Christmas.
A side, I saw last night as well, but didn't photograph for everyone to see. As I stood there in the city, having a blast, bundled up in my many layers and eating all the fun holiday foods from the street vendors.... I and many others walked by, what seems to have become an acceptable fixture in the city!
As Bryan was buying his "rat on a stick", I watched an old woman stumble around on her cane, holding a cup out for spare change. I watched a man playing his instrument on a cold street corner, to make change. More importantly, I sat and watched a man, in ripped up sweat shorts, no shoes or socks, and a t-shirt, trying to wrap himself in a paper shopping bag to keep warm.
All this, after coming out of CHURCH, and saying prayers for my family and friends and the problems that they have going on in their lives. How ironic! We dwell in our problems, but the truth is, It could always be worse, and there are much worse off out there, that many choose to walk by and accept as a part of life. It shouldn't be that way! In this day and age, with the economy the way it is, and people as selfish as they are, it could just as easily become one of us!
I've included a bunch of videos below. Those that know me, know I'm a firm believer in Karma and that these sights left me in tears. I don't expect everyone to be affected the same and I don't expect you to watch all the videos, but I ask that you at least glance at one or two. I'm not asking you to go out and make a difference, or to change the world!
What I'm asking is that this season, as you find yourself complaining about how you have to cook again for the holiday, or that your in laws are coming over, or that you hate the gifts Aunt Marcy gives, or how much it cost to fill your tank with gas, or your home with oil, that you sit back and think about those who aren't fortunate enough to have a home cooked meal.... a table to sit at with friends and family.... who haven't received a smile, no less a gift in years...who walk the cold streets at night, looking for paper bags to keep warm in!
This is the side of Christmas so many of us ignore and I'm just asking that you take a moment to remember these people and maybe for a moment, be thankful for everything you have, instead of crying over what you don't!
Another day for you and me in paradise
The other side of Christmas
My Grown Up Christmas List
My Grown Up Christmas List #2
Winter Survival Kit
Also, a side many of us don't ignore...please take a moment to remember our soldiers and their families, who aren't able to spend Christmas together this year, because they are fighting for our freedoms to be able to enjoy our Christmas with our families and friends! God Bless and Peace on Earth to all!
