From my recent trip to Las Vegas.
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Christmas
All posts tagged Christmas
I’ve got a great job. But, it’s hard work. And tonight, I stayed late, frustrated that some seemingly simple task was taking me forever and keeping me from spending time with my loved ones. So frustrated, was I, when I left work that in my head I was talking to myself as I walked to the bus, trying to think of a way to make it better. I entrenched in my thoughts, angered, tired and ready to go home.
As I walked, man stopped me on the street. He held up a paper and I immediately thought he was asking for directions. Impatiently I listened to him, looking for a way to cut him off as he launched to his tale of how he was down on his luck, really tired of living on the streets and trying to get into a local work program. One that would allow him to stay off the streets, get a shower, shave and regular haircuts. At first, I just wanted him to stop talking and let me say, “I’m sorry, I can’t help,” so I could get on my way. I was cold and tired, ready to go home.
As I listened to his story, there was something about him; his honesty, his frankness, and a little something in his eyes as he looked me square in mine. “Tonight, I’m just trying to get a bed at a hostel for the night. I have spent all day gathering cans and bottles and have worked my way to up to five bucks. I know you’re busy, I know you want to get home, I just need a few bucks so I can reach my goal.”
While he was speaking, it sunk in; I have a great life, I have had some amazing things happen to me this year. I have been blessed and I have been fortunate. Before he could finish, I reached for my wallet and handed him the last cash I had, it was only fifteen bucks, a moment earlier I was trying to decide if I was going to stop at Starbucks for my five-dollar coffee. I thought spending my money this way was a much better investment.
When I handed him the money, he looked at me with a bit of astonishment and gratitude. He stuck out his hand and shook mine. “Thank you sir, my name is Ken and I really appreciate your generosity. Thank you for believing in me, I won’t let you down. Merry Christmas.”
It took me a moment to catch my breath, I wished him a Merry Christmas as well and headed on my way to catch my bus. In that moment, my whole night changed.
I know you won’t Ken.
I love this photo, taken in front of the Venetian Hotel in Las Vegas during Christmas time. They had a great set up, including this “bubble tree” which I decided to shoot from the bottom looking skyward.
I hope you enjoy it as much as I do.
A friend sent this to me. I thought it was pretty damn funny, even if it’s a little creepy!
Merry Christmas – Here’s a creepy caroler.
Remember to love one another, too.
Christmas gift suggestions: To your enemy, forgiveness. To an opponent, tolerance. To a friend, your heart. To a customer, service. To all, charity. To every child, a good example. To yourself, respect. – Oren Arnold
As you meet with friends and family, enjoy their presence as much as their presents. Merry Christmas Eve, my friends. 🙂
Giving presents is one of the most possessive of things we do…. It’s the way we keep a hold on other people, plant ourselves in their lives. – Penelope Lively
Photo: Christmas Lights and Fountain, Venetian Hotel, Las Vegas
Having enjoyed another fun and exciting Festivus with many friends gathered ’round, enjoying each others’ company. I am reminded that sometimes the gifts don’t come all wrapped up with ribbons and bows. But, in kind words, laughter and cherished moments.
“The great art of giving consists in this: The gift should cost very little and yet be greatly coveted, so that it may be the more highly appreciated.” – Baltasar Gracian
Photo Credit: asenat29 on Flickr – Used under creative commons.
