MY CHRISTMAS GIFT TO YOU

Christmas Eve, 2009, and I, as usual, am at a loss as to what to give to my family and friends.  We have our same old Christmas tree in a corner in this new house.  Paul and I have loaded it with toys.  So, each family member will have a toy when we have our Christmas dinner.  We are planning a turkey on December 28 so that all the family can celebrate together.  When there are five children and other families to consider, we have found that the “one day” concept may not be the most workable.  So, any time during the twelve days of Christmas will do for a great family celebration.

In keeping with the idea that all of us have Strengths, I decided that I could give more intangible gifts.  The things we purchase may not be on target and they become something to decide about later–do we give it on to someone else, donate it to a charitable cause, display it when it doesn’t fit the decor, wear it when it is not desired, or treasure it forever (which means more storage space)–what to do with all these things?  I think about that when I am trying to choose the right gift for others.  Doesn’t seem to be in my talent bank.  One of my daughters has the perfect sense of what to give, but I missed that when they were creating my list of talents.

One of my sons said he is giving only consumable items this year.  I like that idea, too.  Eat it up, use it up, or let it die.  No extra closet space needed when fresh flowers or fruit are the gift.

Whatever we decide about the material side of the season, the essence of what it is all about seems to lead me back to the positive side of life and my real belief in the optimistic story of the Baby Jesus and the meaning of His teaching.

I have written my version of the twelve days of Christmas as my gift to each of my family members and my friends.  Please know that I mean it when I say, I will give each of these items.  You won’t have to return them, re-gift them, display them, or store them.  They will be intangible and consumable.  You may redeem your gift throughout the year 2010, with my blessing.  I am honored to be in your life and your sacred Individuality is important to me.

Sing these words to the tune of the traditional Twelve Days of Christmas:

On the first day of Christmas,

Marj Barlow sent to me

A gift of a loving friendship

On the second day of Christmas,

Marj Barlow sent to me

Two hours of listening

On the third day of Christmas,

Marj Barlow sent to me

Three good book titles

On the Fourth day of Christmas,

Marj Barlow sent to me

Four coaching sessions

On the Fifth day of Christmas,

Marj Barlow sent to me

Five thoughts of Love

On the Sixth day of Christmas,

Marj Barlow sent to me

Six bright ideas

On the Seventh day of Christmas,

Marj Barlow sent to me

Seven soft shoulders

On the Eighth day of Christmas,

Marj Barlow sent to me

Eight meals of kindness

On the Ninth day of Christmas,

Marj Barlow sent to me

Nine walks together

On the Tenth day of Christmas,

Marj Barlow sent to me

Ten games of your choice

On the Eleventh day of Christmas

Marj Barlow sent to me

Eleven music sharings

On the Twelfth day of Christmas

Marj Barlow sent to me

Twelve drumming circles.

Enjoy your family and celebrate this blessed season!