Issue 52.10
Christmas is almost upon us, a time when we gather around our dear friends and family. This is a joyous holiday season where we honor the traditions of our loved ones. My family has many holiday traditions also, many of which stem from my mother’s Norwegian heritage.
The tradition we share on Christmas Eve is my favorite. My family gets dressed up in our finest attire and we sit around the table where the patriarch of our family reads the story of the birth of Christ.
Afterward, we eat a magnificent dinner and a delicious bowl of rice pudding, one of which contains a surprise. Whoever finds a whole almond in their bowl of rice pudding is given the privilege of handing out the presents that evening. Somehow the almond always seems to find its way into one of the children’s bowls and the lucky child is so excited to be in charge of giving out the gifts.
Another memory I have of Christmastime took place over 30 years ago, before I had started my career. My wife and I were still considered newlyweds, I was unemployed and we didn’t think Christmas was going to happen for us.
That Christmas, I learned a very important lesson. The purpose of Christmas isn’t necessarily to give gifts but to give friendship and love, to show others that you care. My family and friends gave so much to my wife and me that holiday season and I learned that sometimes it is just as important to receive as it is to give. It taught me to give humility and thanks for all I did have.
I love helping and giving to others. It’s the primary reason I chose my career as a retirement guide. Many of my clients are the same way. They are such generous and charitable individuals that I find it difficult to keep up with their big hearts. Bless you all for your kindness and generosity.
Thank you so much for allowing me to share my story with you. My gift to all of you is my heartfelt love for the people in this wonderful community. Have a wonderful Christmas season and a wonderful new year!