OT: A few thoughts from me to you.......

[trojangrad78]

Another high school football season has ended and our thoughts are now on Christmas and New Year's.

On this Christmas Eve, 2024, may the good news for all people be in your hearts.

May the joy of this season become greater than any feelings of sorrow. This is something I must be aware of as I lost my mom on Christmas Eve, 2018.

Many of us have had tough times this year and many on this board don't truly realize the thoughts and prayers lifted on their behalf.

As we all pause, reflect, and celebrate in our way, I just thought I would share something that flowed out of my heart....actually penned on Dec 16 2013. If for no one else, it is a good reminder to myself of what is really important.

T'was The Week Before Christmas.....by Kevin Alewine (trojangrad78)
It was the week before Christmas, and like most around town,
I was stressed and, way too often, feeling very down;
Yet, our stockings were hung up with love and with care,
Hoping that Santa Claus would visit the kids that came there;
The children were trying to stay in their beds,
While visions of gadgets and toys filled their heads;
Their mom, in her jammies, and I in my sweats,
Were trying to settle down, worried about debts;
Then out in the yard, I heard an odd noise,
I peeked out the window, and saw lots of toys;
It was a small sleigh, and eight tiny reindeer,
So I blinked twice and saw that it all was still here;
The little old driver saw me and did pause,
I knew it just had to be the real Santa Claus;
Up to each steed, and stroking each mane,
He spoke up and called each by their name:
Dasher, Dancer, Prancer, and Vixen,
Comet, Cupid, Donner, and Blixen;
As quick as a blink, the next thing I could see
Was Santa Claus standing right there next to me.
He was wearing all fur, bright red trimmed in white,
To be honest, he looked quite a sight.
He had a big bag of toys on his back,
And he just ignored me as he opened his sack.
I marveled at how he looked so happy, not down,
Not like me, so burdened, with a frown.
He said not a word, but went straight to his work,
Checking his list and putting out toys, just like a good clerk.
Suddenly turning to me, I started to squirm,
Then he spoke with a voice that was quiet, yet firm,
I know you are worried about paying your bills,
You love your family and work hard by your skills.
But you have it all wrong, so don't shed a tear.
You should be focused on the real reason not to fear.
It is not me that you and your family should be thinking about,
But a little baby born in Bethlehem and for that, you should shout.
So, on Christmas morn, don’t think of me on this year,
Jesus is the real reason for this season, have only cheer.
Then, quick as a wink he, the sleigh, and the reindeer were gone,
Flying into the night, to finish his work before dawn.
But I heard him exclaim, as they were going out of sight-
Happy Christmas and God Bless You to all, and to all, a good night.

Merry Christmas......tg78

[Rebel-Fan-74]

Merry Christmas to you and your family.

I'm blessed beyond measure and I know it. Great Family, great friends, and a love that comes from above.

If this works, our quartet from our Christmas concert.... I'm the end nearest the director and the first voice you hear.

https://video.ibm.com/recorded/13413902 ... c2w&t=1967