The Messages of Christmas

The count down has already begun, yes there is roughly seven weeks before Black Friday starts the Christmas shopping season. If holiday shopping, dinners and decorations are weighing heavy on your mind don't forget about your other obligation this season - Christmas cards. Yes, writing Christmas cards is very tedious, who, where, when and what - to write in the cards - can be exhausting and frustrating, especially when dealing with family, friends and co-workers of different cultures and backgrounds.

So if you are not too sure what to write, take a few of these tips and messages and put them to use. Use up that stack of blank cards you've had hanging around. Or if you have a handy printer and some matted or double-sided photo paper, be creative and use your own photos - it will give it that added personal touch.

For instance last year I used a few photos of ornaments, tree close ups and my decorated palm tree and put my own messages to go with the photos. Some of my messages included:

* This Christmas wish hopes to find you full of Love, Joy and Peace.

* As the earth sleeps beneath a blanket of new fallen snow this winter, May you be blessed with the Light and
Life of this Christmas season. (used with a black and white photo of a snowy field and tree)

* Blessings to you during this Season of Light and Life. (for anyone)

* May Joy and Love find you during all the days of this Christmas season. (used with 12 days of Christmas
ornaments)

* Mele Kalikimaka! (Hawaiian) May your Christmas be green and bright.

There are many more possibilities, and this is a good opportunity to use your photo skills and still give that personalized gift and card to someone who may not expect it. While Santa and Christmas are the focuses remember the December holiday season includes many holidays and observances; Advent, Hanukkah, Luciadagen, Las Posadas, Christmas and Kwanzaa. These all have been grouped into the identification of the Festival of Lights. They are all centered around candles, family, winter and light. Many tie in to the Christmas season, however all of them come from different parts of the globe and may be personal to someone you know. Just a few words of blessing and well wishing will mean a lot to someone who may not see their family this season or who just doesn't celebrate but appreciates your thoughts and gesture of kindness. It may mean more than that silly office grab bag or gift card stocking stuffer. So enjoy your Christmas holiday and season of Light and Life this December.