A Christmas Message from ALSM’s President & CEO
I recently had the opportunity to participate in a book club discussion on “The Book of Joy” written by Desmond Tutu and the Dalai Lama. It was an inspiring discussion and brought to mind the importance of joy in our lives and how we often simply dismiss it.
Since we are in the season of joy, I thought it may be beneficial to share some suggestions to great joy.
Increase your interest in others. Christmas can become so related to commercial gift giving that we become selfish to others. Sharing with people is important because giving is a value which cannot be duplicated in any other way. Share yourself, i.e. take a friend or family member for lunch or a movie, bake a cake or make soup for a neighbor–in essence be a presence for others. But, as you increase your interest . . .
Have less demanding expectations of others. Do not think that others will respond in a way we want them to respond or think we would respond. People, even the best of people, will disappoint us. We can only be responsible for our actions. We are called to love others no matter what.
Change your perspective. Being joyful is based on perspective. If we stand in pity or disdain, we will view the world as bitter. Instead, be resolutely positive and see hope and opportunities.
Examine your life. Do we need to view people and life from a different lens? Perhaps not tying our view on success to material riches but to spiritual riches. Will it make a difference in our lives if we take the time to reflect on our attitude and our actions?
These suggestions are only a few that we can use to experience great joy.
I encourage you to take some time during this holiday season to reflect on joy in your life.
My wish for this season and for 2022 is that you and your loved ones will experience great joy in the presence of others.
Merry Christmas and Happy and Healthy New Year!
Sincerely,
Patricia W. Savage
President/CEO
