Written by: Colin Blalock, Chair GSCPA (The Pessimistic Optimist)

‘Tis the season for being thankful and for many giving and receiving gifts…  I recall when I was very young I had a huge list of “things” to be purchased; just in case someone needed a suggestion or two.  I was under what I called the spell of the “sisters.”  You know the two sisters:  IWanta and INeeda?  I want a fancy watch or was it I need a new IPhone.  Several years ago I found a quote entitled “Christmas Gift Suggestions” by Oren Arnold (Novelist, journalist, and humorist).  Every year I read it and come up with some additions of my own.

“Christmas Gift Suggestions:

To your enemy, forgiveness;

To an opponent, tolerance;

To a friend, your heart;

To a customer, service;

To all, charity;

To every child, a good example;

To yourself, respect.”

I have some 2011 additions to the list to consider:

• To your family and loved ones, especially young children, your time, attention and love;
• To people facing serious health issues especially young people and family, your prayers, concern, and understanding;
• To someone that hurt or disappointed you, forgiveness and compassion;
• To your business partners, your trust, respect and support;
• To people that work with and for you, respect, guidance and encouragement;
• To the less fortunate, your help and assistance;
• To your parents, compassion and gratitude;
• To friends, your time and understanding;
• To veterans, respect and gratitude for their service;
• To charitable organizations, your financial support and if possible your involvement;
• To teachers, appreciation for their dedication and passion for teaching;
• To yourself, exercise, personal time, and acceptance of who your are;
• To your profession, your time, effort, and support.

“There’s more, much more, to Christmas than candlelight and cheer;

It’s the spirit of sweet friendship that brightens all year;

Its thoughtfulness and kindness;

Its hope reborn again,

For peace, for understanding,

And for goodwill to men!” ~ John Greenleaf

We should all pause and think about how blessed we are, focusing on being thankful for our lives and understanding what wonderful gifts we have.  It will make cold days warmer, dark days sunnier, and sad days merrier. ~Colin

This is my Christmas gift to you.  Please share additions you make to your list.

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year! ~ Colin