The
holidays are over, but memories of friends and relatives still linger. Preferably warm memories; forget the unpleasant ones, unless
they relate to something preventable we don’t want to happen again.
Life is unpredictable, but much is in our control. We may need the courage to say “No”, or to plan ahead for likely eventualities.
Assume that young Stubby’s restlessness or grouchiness tend to upset your other guests. Arrange beforehand with his mom that you’d like him and others to play a vigorous game outside or build a magnificent snowman—have carrot, hat and other niceties ready for them.
If someone is about to spoil the harmony of the festivities, be prepared to act quickly and request that person’s “capable help” and take him or her out of the room—you may want to ask for improvements to the cake's decoration, or get some opinion on a garment you have. People like to be asked; it conveys a sense of importance and may lift their spirits.
Who of us can truthfully say that the company of each relative or friend is equally enjoyable? Not many. There may even be one guest you’d rather celebrate without in the year ahead. If it’s a relative who is usually invited, let her know ahead of time that regretfully you’re having only a small gathering and won’t be seeing her.
Few activities lift the spirit of a group quite as much as singing does. Joyful music leads us sunward in the Triumph Song of Life. Ask one of your friends to bring an instrument and make a few copies of some favorites. Since I can’t sing, this works rather well for me—I have to urge everyone to sing louder than I do, so no one can hear me.
We are most fortunate to have friends; even just one true friend is worth our deepest gratitude.
Life is unpredictable, but much is in our control. We may need the courage to say “No”, or to plan ahead for likely eventualities.
Assume that young Stubby’s restlessness or grouchiness tend to upset your other guests. Arrange beforehand with his mom that you’d like him and others to play a vigorous game outside or build a magnificent snowman—have carrot, hat and other niceties ready for them.
If someone is about to spoil the harmony of the festivities, be prepared to act quickly and request that person’s “capable help” and take him or her out of the room—you may want to ask for improvements to the cake's decoration, or get some opinion on a garment you have. People like to be asked; it conveys a sense of importance and may lift their spirits.
Who of us can truthfully say that the company of each relative or friend is equally enjoyable? Not many. There may even be one guest you’d rather celebrate without in the year ahead. If it’s a relative who is usually invited, let her know ahead of time that regretfully you’re having only a small gathering and won’t be seeing her.
Few activities lift the spirit of a group quite as much as singing does. Joyful music leads us sunward in the Triumph Song of Life. Ask one of your friends to bring an instrument and make a few copies of some favorites. Since I can’t sing, this works rather well for me—I have to urge everyone to sing louder than I do, so no one can hear me.
We are most fortunate to have friends; even just one true friend is worth our deepest gratitude.
Friendship
A friend who shared your early years,
your games, your school,
your joys, your tears,
he is indeed a kindred soul.
A friend who listens to your woes,
and understands your highs and lows,
knows truly well a real friend’s role.
A friend, who can your secret keep,
who does not run when you must weep,
reward her well with what you reap.
Without a friend this baffling earth
would be devoid of hope and mirth.
Be glad for every friend, and proud.
For friends who only drink your wine,
who gather ‘round when all is fine,
believe me, you can do without. *
Until next time,
Rosi
* From "In Search of the Good Life"
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