Got a little bit of Jacob Marley in ya?

'Tis the season, right? Christmas is my favorite. The stories, movies, sights & sounds, the smells, the tradition, family & friends...and most importantly - the birth of Christ.

This year, however, it doesn't look as though I'll make it back to Wisconsin to spend the holidays with my family and friends (in Iowa and Illinois as well). I haven't missed too many Christmases at home since coming to California in April 1998 - maybe 3? Needless to say, I'm a bit peeved (and sad)...I won't get into the reasons why I'm staying here. Though my Aunt Ev and Uncle Bob will be here between the holidays (Dad's youngest sister, Uncle Bob has family in Santa Barbara who I'm close to), so I'll probably venture north to spend a few days in SB. And my brother may fly in after Christmas through New Year's, so that's something.

Anyway, back to Jacob Marley's ghost. There are certainly moments, days and weeks where my life has mimicked ole Jacob Marley - the weight of so many chains and locks dragging my mind, body and soul to depths I didn't think I could sink to. Especially since April 2004 (there's a story there). We all feel it at one time or another. Holidays = Hell on Earth...an unfortunate formula many experience. My uncle is ill. A girl friend's father just passed away. Another friend's father is sick. It's difficult to celebrate the holidays when there's so much suffering out and about.

Peace on Earth, Goodwill toward Men. Think it. Repeat it. Chant it. Sing it. Sign it. It may help with that weight on your shoulders. Believe me...I understand.