It’s that time of year again. If it hasn't happened yet, it probably will. You'll open your mailbox, pull out the mail, and find a bright red envelope amidst the holiday catalogs and department store flyers. A Christmas card. There might even be a letter inside.
Yes, I know. People have strong opinions about family Christmas letters. Some think they're nothing more than a way for people to brag about the trips they’ve taken or gush over their little star athlete and honor student.
And then there’s the other kind of Christmas letters. Maybe you've seen them. They're so full of complaints and self-pity, you wonder if you should send a Christmas (or a sympathy) card in return.
But on the most part, I think Christmas letters get a bum rap. Yes, I confess. I send one of those “dreaded letters” to friends and relatives every year. (Hey, I'm a writer. What did you expect?)
The other day I sat down at my desk, ready to dive into issue #12 of the “Zeck Zone Newsletter.” But I was easily distracted. I soon found myself skimming through old copies of our newsletters from years past. Memories of moments – both significant and trivial – flooded my mind.
Yes, I know. People have strong opinions about family Christmas letters. Some think they're nothing more than a way for people to brag about the trips they’ve taken or gush over their little star athlete and honor student.
And then there’s the other kind of Christmas letters. Maybe you've seen them. They're so full of complaints and self-pity, you wonder if you should send a Christmas (or a sympathy) card in return.
But on the most part, I think Christmas letters get a bum rap. Yes, I confess. I send one of those “dreaded letters” to friends and relatives every year. (Hey, I'm a writer. What did you expect?)
The other day I sat down at my desk, ready to dive into issue #12 of the “Zeck Zone Newsletter.” But I was easily distracted. I soon found myself skimming through old copies of our newsletters from years past. Memories of moments – both significant and trivial – flooded my mind.
There seems to be a fine line between “bragging” and sharing the good stuff God’s been doing. Of course life isn’t perfect. But in a world so full of negativity, what’s wrong with focusing on the good? Isn’t the Christmas season the perfect time to appreciate our blessings?
Okay, I'll admit it. I've wondered if friends and relatives roll their eyes when they read our letters. I guess I’ll never know. But the truth is, I don't write them for others. I write them for us.
It forces us to slow down and appreciate the positive things in life.
It records our family history.
It’s a keepsake for our kids.
So while I hope our friends and relatives look forward to our letters, it really doesn't matter. I'll keep writing them just the same.
It forces us to slow down and appreciate the positive things in life.
It records our family history.
It’s a keepsake for our kids.
So while I hope our friends and relatives look forward to our letters, it really doesn't matter. I'll keep writing them just the same.
