"Simple Gifts" for Christmas

"'Tis the gift to be simple, 'tis the gift to be free
'Tis the gift to come down where we ought to be,
And when we find ourselves in the place just right,
'Twill be in the valley of love and delight."
~ Joseph Brackett

As I help my mom prepare Christmas Eve dinner, I look to my right and see this verse of a “Shaker Song” framed as my mom often likes to do with her favorite quotes. "Simple Gifts" is a perfect reminder for the season of what is important and what we should cherish.

While many here are in pain at the moment, I want you to know that although the path may be hard at times, you are exactly where you need to be right now. You have seen the light and you are making progress to gain the love and respect in a relationship that you DESERVE.

Dismiss thoughts of those who let you down or disappointed you in life. They are not worth your time, breath or energy. Instead, cherish this time with the loved ones around you who know how special you are and make you a priority. Embrace your time with them. It is a precious gift.

Today’s fast-paced and technical world can often leave people feeling empty and longing for more. Take time to slow down and appreciate the simple, but most abundant aspects of your life – your family and loved ones. While it takes a conscious effort to stay in the moment, appreciating what you have should be your primary focus. When we do this, we realize how truly blessed we are.

"When true simplicity is gained,
To bow and to bend we shan't be ashamed,
To turn, turn will be our delight,
Till by turning, turning we come 'round right.

'Tis the gift to be loved and that love to return,
'Tis the gift to be taught and a richer gift to learn,
And when we expect of others what we try to live each day,
Then we'll all live together and we'll all learn to say,

'Tis the gift to have friends and a true friend to be,
'Tis the gift to think of others not to only think of "me",
And when we hear what others really think and really feel,
Then we'll all live together with a love that is real.[

The Earth is our mother and the fullness thereof,
Her streets, her slums, as well as stars above.
Salvation is here where we laugh, where we cry,
Where we seek and love, where we live and die.

When true liberty is found,
By fear and by hate we will no more be bound.
In love and in light we will find our new birth
And in peace and freedom, redeem the Earth.

'Tis a gift to be simple, 'tis a gift to be fair,
'Tis a gift to wake and breathe the morning air.
And each day we walk on the path that we choose,
'Tis a gift we pray we never shall lose."
~ Joseph Brackett

I hope you all know how grateful I am for your friendship and support. You are the reason this forum is a sanctuary and safe haven to share, be heard, and understood. I wish you all the best this season and always, and hope you enjoy a wonderful and blessed holiday with your loved ones.

Lots of Love,
Lisa

Jan 11 - 3AM
Luv2bme
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The link to Simple Gifts~Jewel

Jan 11 - 3AM
Luv2bme
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Music~Simple Gifts

Dec 29 - 6AM
Pearl430
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babby steps

Dec 26 - 7PM
not-giving-up
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Awesome support

Dec 28 - 9AM (Reply to #6)
Lisa E. Scott
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Congrats!

Dec 25 - 6AM
Katiep
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Thank you, Lisa. Your work is

Dec 24 - 9PM
not-giving-up
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Have I lost my mind???? HELP!!!!!

Dec 25 - 1PM (Reply to #3)
Lisa E. Scott
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Not-Giving-Up

Dec 24 - 10PM (Reply to #1)
thenewjane
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Do you have

Dec 24 - 11PM (Reply to #2)
not-giving-up
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Thank you