Deanna and I went Christmas shopping yesterday. It started out fine, and then as you can imagine, got very busy. We had been in a department store, and thought we had finished. Upon leaving, remembered a gift we hadn't picked out. We returned.

In that short a period of time, the lines had gone from 'walk up to the register,' to 'wait in line in the maze of chains and poles' until it is your turn to check out. I love long lines. And when I am done, I like to go get teeth drilled and MRI exams. I did discover however, that waiting can be fun if you make it fun.

Deanna and I decided to make it fun. We laughed, and joked about bits of nothing, but it brought enjoyment to a frustrating experience. Deanna's body language changed when I told her I was okay with waiting, and was not in my usual hurry. She relaxed and became light-hearted. What was excruciating, became a time to remember.

Thank you Lord for allowing me to see joy in an experience I would usually find much annoyment in.

The guy behind us in line saw it a little differently. He was about to find out that he was waiting in the wrong line, and had been for quite awhile. He simply wanted to make an exchange. He decided he was going to show them. He was just going to buy the item he wanted to exchange for, and return later to finish. He used some wrather flowery language to describe his intent. Those around him enjoyed it as it made them laugh.

Then it happened. An older lady with a very bad wig, tripped and fell, right near the registers. I was appauled at the lack of store staff response. Apparently, they did not want to evoke the wrath of customers who were waiting in line. I hopped out of line and went to help her up. Asked if she was okay, she responded she thought she had hurt her foot. I went to a clerk and asked if I could have their stool for her to sit on. They complied.

Eventually a manager came and filled out an accident report with her.

I know I risk some believing I share this story in a self-promoting way, but my intent is to point out that at a time when we are gearing up to celebrate the birth of our Lord, there are things we can do to make a stressful time, less so.

Don't be in a hurry (AM I LISTENING TO ME?)! Look for ways to reach out to those who are in need. Speak kindly to those who are around...it may be the only Christ they see this Christmas. Enjoy those you are with, for the moments may last for a lifetime.

By all means, reach out. Not only will you bless, but you will be blessed.

dad