Snow for Christmas

When I woke  . . . it took a moment to realize the power was out. When the snow is deep it's always silent here. I knew where my tiny light would be; found by touch. My security when the lights go out is my tiny fish-flashlight within reach of my pillow. With just a glimmer at my window, it lit my way to candles and matches, the phone book and my phone. I called the power company. "If you had power, you'd be one of the few, the lucky ones," said the cheerful voice. There was a power station and lines down all over town. I spent most the day in candle-light before, in the afternoon, the lights came back on. The house kept us warm and cozy until everything started purring, and, ah, finally, coffee.

The snow is so deep that the kitty tracks are belly-deep tracks, and I'm happy in a million ways. I love the Holidays, especially the spirit of the season. Amid the chatter of what people want to buy, I do hear generous New Year's wishes. My hopes are like those! I want people who are sick to have comfort and healing; children who have no parents, to be adopted and loved. I want people to never have to worry about whether they have food, clean water and medical care! I hope people will help when they see need. I hope none will be afraid to reach out for the help that they need. My very best wishes to all of you.