History of Good King Wenceslas

Good King Wenceslas looked out on the Feast of Stephen
When the snow lay round about, deep and crisp and even
Brightly shone the sun that day, though the frost was cruel
When a poor man came in sight, gathering winter fuel.

Good King Wencelsas of course, rescued the poor man by braving a fierce storm and
gave us all a lesson in generosity.

This is one of the best-loved carols, over 129 years.

Who was the good King Wenceslas? He became Bohemia’s most famous martyr and patron saint. His picture appeared on Bohemian coins, and the Crown of Wenceslas became the symbol of Czech independence.

This moment in time provided by our good friends at
www.christmas-gifts-on-sale.com

BAH HUMBUG

There has been a lot of controversy in the media lately, with
strident voices on both sides, on the merits of stores wishing
Customers MERRY CHRISTMAS.

This is beyond ridiculous, if you take time to think this through.
Christmas of course, is a religious holiday to Christians, but has been embraced
by many people in many countries as a wonderful magical time of year.
It represents a universal theme – the Spirit of Giving – Peace on Earth, Goodwill
toward Men

and what can possibly be wrong with that?

True, it is stressful for some, sad for some, controversial for some.
Yes, it's commercialized, advertised, we overspend, you can find
fault with anything if you are so inclined.

But overriding all that, has to be the good that this time of year brings.
Think about it.

Volunteers at the Homeless Shelters are plentiful.
Checks are sent to every charity imaginable.
Elderly shutins get visits, gifts. Communities support local food banks.
The bellringers are out in force.
Children wait for Santa to come.
Children not so fortunate, receive gifts from many, many, caring families, individuals, companies.
Holiday Decorations are everywhere, there are parades, parties, church bells ring, snow falls,
Stars twinkle in Christmas trees.
Families come together, carolers carol, goodwill abounds.
Even Scrooge kept Christmas!
And let us not forget the Grinch, who has brought joy to so many.

On your own? Can't get home?
Here’s a thought. Whatever your trials and tribulations, look around you and
do something for someone else. VOLUNTEER. Call the homeless shelters, the Salvation Army, call United Way who has a list of charities needing help, the Red Cross, Meals on Wheels, Animal Shelters.
Or adopt a dog or kitty, there are many out there who need a friend really badly.

As someone who has volunteered several times at Homeless Shelters and especially on Christmas, I can tell you it comes back to you in ways you can’t imagine. It surely gives you an attitude of gratitude.

So let's forget the carping and moaning. Say Merry Christmas if you want to, or not.
But don't bug those who do.
It's called live and let live. Let the Spirit of Christmas prevail.

So, from that family favorite, Twas the Night Before Christmas,
A Merry Christmas to all, and to all a good night.

The folks at
Christmas-Gifts-On-Sale.com