December 25, 2022
Good morning my friends. I hope you are doing well and enjoying life. I wish you all a very Merry Christmas. Today, billions of people around the planet are celebrating Christmas Day. Millions of faithful are honoring the birth of Jesus Christ; while others give praise in their own faith or culture. This day is special and significant for many reasons. The day commemorates the birth of our Savor; but it represents a rebirth and renewal of faith for us all. It’s a day that brings joy and happiness to people of all ages, races, cultures, genders and nationalities. The celebration unites our planet in the spirit of peace and giving. I was raised in an Italian Catholic family. I have fond memories of the holidays from my youth, both at home and in our parish house of worship. I am less of a church goer these days, but my belief and trust in God are stronger than ever. On this blessed and beautiful day, it doesn’t matter if we share the same ideals, beliefs, religious offerings, or believe in God, Santa or Kris Kringle. This is a spectacular day, when we (and the world) can enjoy the beauty of this magnificent holiday and celebration. It’s a day filled with joy, hope and wonder. It creates delight and happiness for us all. I know there are nations and populations around the globe that are oppressed and controlled. I hope and pray that these people (and all countries) can one day live with the same freedoms, rights and peace, as we share here at home in America today. Christmas is a day that all you have to is “believe.” The universe is filled with magic and wonder; even more so today than ever. Fill your heart with joy, gratitude and be happy.
I have an array of fabulous memories of Christmas and the holidays; spent with family, friends and loved ones. I associate many memorable, sad and tragic days with this time of year too. My thoughts revolve around significant times, while working as a Los Angeles Police Officer. My nearly 34-year law enforcement career meant I worked many of the holidays, including the Christmas, New Year’s and all the other Holidays too. One such memory occurred when I was a sergeant. I was on loan to Hollenbeck Area, so their personnel could attend a Christmas Holiday Party. It was nearing the end of my shift late that Saturday night, just days before Christmas. I responded to a vehicle accident, only a short distance from the police station. When I arrived, I saw two vehicles had violently collided in the intersection. The badly damaged cars were at opposite corners, with debris scattered across the streets. Firefighters were busy extricating a female from one of the mangled cars. They were working feverishly to save her life. I looked in the rear of the car and saw an overturned car seat on the floor. As I illuminated to interior, with my flashlight, I could see a small foot beneath the seat. I broke out the rear window and climbed into the car. I lifted the car seat, which had been wedged between the front and rear seats. This is when my heart sank, as I lifted a little girl from the floor. She immediately clung tightly to me; wrapping her tiny arms around me. I lifted her from the car as the paramedics told me the female driver passed away from her injuries. The small child maintained her grip, softly saying “Mommy.” It seemed to be an eternity, before a female officer was finally able to pry the child away from me. I continued with my duties until the scene was clear. All I could think about on my drive home, later that night, was my own little girl. Life can change in an instant. It changed me that night, and on many other occasions as well. Police, law enforcement, fire, medical, first responders and our military personnel are always on duty 24/7; to ensure our safety and security today (and every day). The work and dedication these individuals provide is never ending. This keeps them away from their family and life. They place themselves in harm’s way, so we can live in peace, freedom and safety. Please keep all of these brave men and women (first responders and military) in your thoughts and prayers today. They deserve much more respect, honor and praise than they receive; for they are the true heroes of our nation and the world.
The Christmas Holiday is a magical time for the majority of the world. This is a time when we all need to work together to be happier and more grateful for family, friends and life. We (here in America) are truly blessed with an abundance and prosperity of all things. We have so much, that often times individuals think they need more. Stop complaining and start living a life with respect, courtesy, kindness and grace. Leave your ego and negativity behind. Don’t worry about the past. It’s gone and you can’t change it. Don’t stress over the future or what “might” happen. Stay here in this moment and enjoy the present. This is where all the magic of life is occurring; beginning with each breath you take. Each of us is a unique and rare gift, with a special purpose while on this planet. Don’t waste a second of this precious time. Work hard every day to achieve what you desire and fulfill your dreams. Don’t expect others to do the work, while you sit back doing nothing or asking for more. Earth, and all creatures, are amazing creations. Let’s get busy and make the world a better place to live. The New Year is just one week away. My vow in 2023 (and beyond), is to live a happier, kinder and more compassionate life. What is your intention for yourself, your family, our nation and the world in the new year?
I’m happy and grateful to be sharing this Christmas Day with my daughter. I hope you’re enjoying the day with the special people in your life too. I’ve often wondered what happened to that little girl, those 26 years ago. I am forever scared by that event, and many other tragedies that fill with my heart with sorrow. Many individuals will thrive in happiness today; while others will grapple with the difficulties of life. We all deal with struggles from time to time; and the holiday season is no different. I know this for a fact, because I’ve had my share of difficult days; holidays included. Physical, mental and spiritual incidents have blocked my path at times, during the course of my life. The best any of us can do, is to stay positive, focus on the present and keep moving forward. Life may not be perfect, but then nothing is. Healing is possible; because I’m a prime example. For me, the best part of living is knowing I am in control of my own happiness, attitude and peace. We each have the power, when we wake up every morning, to be happy or not. My choice is easy and simple! I’m grateful, happy and positive to be here breathing; with the opportunity to reach for my dreams and desires. Life is gift to be cherished! Don’t waste the opportunity. Merry Christmas my friends! Believe in the magic of the Holidays and life. Open your heart and soul, to allow God and the universe to guide you. Follow your dreams. They know the way.
Please tune in and join me again next Sunday for more! The puzzle of life is always changing. Change can lead to amazing opportunities. Together, let’s be healthy and strong; mentally, physically and spiritually!
Thanks for your love and support! Embrace Life! Be sure to get outside and enjoy nature!
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