"The Work of Christmas"

Each year when I look for my unused Christmas cards and find the poem titled “The Work of Christmas” by Howard Thurman, a 20th century theologian, educator and civil rights leader, I am reminded of what is important about the season.

While we celebrate with parties and gift giving with families and friends at Christmas and New Years let’s be thankful we live where we do. The poem speaks for itself and what each of us does with it determines how our lives will affect the community we so enjoy. Maybe then by extension our good will can reach beyond our borders to others in need, worldwide.

The Work of Christmas

When the song of the angels is stilled,

when the star in the sky is gone,

when the kings and princes are home,

when the shepherds are back with their flocks,

the work of Christmas begins:

to find the lost,

to heal the broken,

to feed the hungry,

to release the prisoner,

to rebuild the nations,

to bring peace among the people,

to make music in the heart.

Hoping and wishing the best to all residents of the Town of La Conner, the Weekly News, Shelter Bay and the Swinomish community residents.

Thanks to the editor and staff of the award winning weekly newspaper. I must remember to re-subscribe.

Seasons greetings,

MJ Craig

Shelter Bay

From “The Mood of Christmas and Other Celebrations.” Used with permission of Friends United Press. All rights reserved.