May Christmas be memorable

Well, this is the week we've been waiting for. From a Christian standpoint, there is no observance as important or special as Christmas. It marks the birth of Christ and is the most important day in Christian history.

And though all of our observances of this holiday are not always religious in nature, they do adhere to Christian beliefs: giving to others, gathering with loved ones, etc.

On the commercial side -- like it or not -- Christmas is important as well. In today's economy, it has taken on added significance. This religious holiday is a major generator of our overall economy with countless retailers highly dependent on a boost in their business. We'll see how that works this year.

The highways will be packed this week as travelers dash to their destinations. An unfortunate and tragic part of this holiday travel is that there will be accidents that mar the holiday season. Thus we urge added caution in the week ahead. Add New Year's week to that list as well.

This Christmas -- as with so many in the past -- thousands of American men and women are serving in the military abroad. Our prayers are with them. They sacrifice this holiday and so much more to assure we have the freedom to celebrate in whatever fashion we choose. For that we remain grateful.

In short order, the gifts will be opened, the food consumed and life or at least routine will go back to normal. I know there are those -- count me in that category -- who will welcome that return to normalcy. But first the merriment.

I also take great joy in this week for another, completely different reason. Monday marked the first day of winter. Now believe me, I am no fan of winter weather. Quite the opposite. But, as we all learned in science class, the first day of winter means that the days will slowly but surely get longer. Each day will bring us about a minute of so more daylight.

The advent of longer days just means that spring can't be too far away. Sure, it's a stretch. But with each passing day we are blessed with a tad bit more sunlight. That to me is as joyous as Christmas itself.

I hope that this Christmas is a memorable one, a joyous one and a safe one for you and your family.

Merry Christmas.