It’s that time of year again. Christmas is upon us. For a few days, in many parts of our global village, people will take time out to gather with family and friends, to share a meal, exchange gifts and express greetings of love, joy and hope in the coming year.

However or wherever the greetings and wishes are expressed, or in whatever language, as the old year fades away and a new one beckons, the message is as universal and timeless as the message in this medieval Celtic blessing:

May peace and plenty be the first to lift the latch on your door and happiness be guided to your home by the candle of Christmas.

In the New Year, may your right hand always be stretched out in friendship and never in want.

Merry Christmas. I hope you’ll watch for my next post on Monday, January 7th., 2013.