Nothing is more important in our lives that those people who help shape us into what we were meant to be – our family and our friends.  I am incredibly blessed to have an amazing wife who loves me with all my faults, supports me in my wildest dreams, and encourages me when things get tough.  I hope she feels like I do the same thing for her.

The older I get, the more I realize the uniqueness of my family.  We are all very close.  You would probably classify my family as a “touchy-feely” family.  We like to hug and show our affection for one another openly by our actions, not just our words. And even though distance separates us, when we all get together, it’s as though we were never apart.

My parents instilled in each us of the belief that we are capable of doing anything.  “Impossible” was not a word that you would hear around my house.  Things like honor, integrity, honesty, respect, unconditional love, the value of hard work, and humility were taught to us through the actions of my parents – not simply through the words they spoke.  Through their lives, we were taught to live to make a difference in our corner of the world.  Our faith is not just a Sunday tradition; rather it is something that influences every decision, every action.

One of the things I enjoy most about my job is the opportunity I have to meet new people.  And I get to meet lots of people!  As I look back over 2010, I’ve had the privilege of sharing time with individuals who have dedicated their lives to making a difference in the lives of others.

Christmas is a time for family and friends to get together to celebrate our appreciation and love for each other.  In this politically correct world, it is more important to remember that this is not just the “holiday season.”  It is a time to celebrate LOVE, one who entered into the world in the life of a baby and changed history.  He invites us to join His family, celebrate His love, and enjoy His forgiveness.

Merry Christmas everyone.