I always get caught up in the momentum of the holiday season.
We pass Thanksgiving, reach the Christmas milestone and approach the New Year.
There are numerous things to the divert our attention. Holiday shopping, football, social events. But for me it is a time to reflect.
All three holidays have special meaning. A second chance and maybe even a new beginning.
Thanksgiving Day, a second chance. That is why pilgrims made a treacherous journey from England to America. They were searching for a better life to live and worship in their own way. They wanted a second chance.
To Christians, Christmas is the most important season. A special line in the sand. And for one reason. Christ died on the cross to give believers a second chance.
My favorite Christmas story that I share with my grandchildren is the marvelous tale spun by Charles Dickens called 'A Christmas Carol.' The lessons of the spirit from this special time of year come from the dead. Follow the teachings of Saint James in the Bible. Do good deeds, help others, do good works.
Our worst sin is often not our venality but our indifference. Dickens teaches us that our empathy can swallow us and we lose compassion. But we have a chance for redemption. A gamble to look back and try again.
What a wonderful gift. The onetime act of a second chance.
Then comes the New Year and the opportunity for renewal. A second chance if you need one.
I certainly do. And as Tiny Tim says in Dickens’ saga - God bless us everyone.
Peace and Justice, Jim Brown You can read Jim Brown's past columns and see continuing updates at http://www. jimbrownla.com.
