December 23, 2011

Hello, World!

The Christmas card—a stiff piece of colorful paper, folded and inserted in an envelop with a few words of glad tidings affixed with a postage stamp. One could say they are old school in the modern era of e-cards, e-mail, texts, tweets, and instant messaging. One could also say a hug is a waste of energy; a kiss a waste of intimacy; and the twinkle within the eyes of a loved one a waste of emotion.

I say the modern era is filled with foolishness and wasted opportunities to express what all humankind desires for themselves—a heart filled with love.

This Christmas, more than ever, my heart and card slot bulge with love. From my family and friends to the children and grandchildren of my victim, my cheeks are awash in sweet tears by their expression of loving kindness for me. Each card, paper and ink, are proof that out of sight does not mean out of mind. In a world where the fast lane is where we begin our daily journey, to know what someone "pulled over" and spent time thinking of me, choosing a card for me, writing words of care for me, and finding a postage stamp to pay for its passage humbles me.

These acts also lift me high on the shoulders of men and women who have bent onto their knees to reach down into the pit of prison to offer their hand, saying, "You are worthy—take hold." I clasp their hands with the promise that their faith and trust in me is not misplaced. Hand in hand we shall face the New Year with hopeful anticipation because united and under God's protection, we cannot fail, regardless of what comes our way.

So—what is a Christmas card? It is everything. It can save a man from the abyss. Thanks for saving me.

Thank you for checking in on me.

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year.

Sincerely,
Gregg Barnes Watson

Gregory Barnes Watson
D-67547 C-14-104-U
PO Box 409060
Ione, CA 95640

Novel: A Thundering Wind (Amazon.com)
https://www.amazon.com/Thundering-Wind-Gregory-Barnes-Watson/dp/0615379443