Two weeks from today we Christians will celebrate the birth of our Savior! The Jews among us have just completed their celebration of Hanukkah! The trees are being decorated and the Menorahs have been lighted! It is a time of celebration! As we pass out gifts and join family and friends for this holiday season, let us all be safe! As we pay respect to the ones that we love, let us remember to respect ourselves! There will be parties galore and many will raise a toast. For some it will be their first encounter with alcohol since their quits began! Do not allow "Demon Rum" to steal your quit! It is a time of year when many will feel good about all they have done for others! As we enjoy the reward of appreciation from those who care about us, we must not allow ourselves to think of "just one cigarette" as a reward. It is no more of a reward than "just one bullet to the brain" would be!
Be proud this holiday season not only of the gifts you have given others, but also of the gift you have given yourself! The gift you have given to all of us is a longer a better life for yourself! This season, as I ask to be forgiven for my trespasses, extend forgivness to those who have trespassed againt me, I would like to thank all of you who given me the gift of friendship! And thank you for helping me overcome the nicodemon! I wish for all a very Merry Christmas! Whether you celebrate it or not! Celebrate yourself and your new "Start" on life. You matter!
Tommy
