The True Christmas Spirit

I could hear the refuse collection truck coming down the street as I got those last few winks of sleep the morning after Christmas. Could I get out there in time to place Mom's bin on the sidewalk? With all the gift exchange excitement, we'd forgotten to put it out the night before. Out I dashed in my PJ's and sock slippers into the crisp central Texas morning, quickly rolling the bin across the grass to the street as the truck came down the other side. Suddenly the truck stopped and the driver appeared, stepping down from his truck. "I already passed on that side, sir!", he said. And before I knew it, he crossed the street, grabbed the bin and rolled it to the other side of the street. After positioning it, he climbed back into his truck and deftly dumped the bin into his truck with the mechanical arms. I was so taken back with his kindness that all I could think to say was, "Well, I'll bring it back, and I sure do appreciate your help!" as he drove away. By then my feet were quite wet from the dew but I had a smile on my face. I didn't even mind a couple of neighbors staring at me in my PJ's from their cars as they left for work. I had just witnessed one of the most impressive evidences of the true Christmas spirit of my entire life! So, my driver friend, whoever you may be, thanks so much for adding to my Christmas joy by your simple act of kindness right here in Temple, Texas on Antelope Trail!

Another Trip?

What a whirl of activities the past month has been! Back from our trip to the States in early November, I was soon off to a weekend preaching opportunity in Almarante do Maranhão where the folks are very friendly and appreciative. The rest of November was finish-up time with my six classes at the Seminary, reminding my students to turn in all their semester work. Most did, but some didn't quite get it all together unfortunately. On December 1st three fellows were graduated, one of whom I had helped earlier with his 'monografia' paper. Then paper-grading time began and preparations for our next trip.

Yes, we are on another trip, this weekend enjoying our granddaughter and her parents in Florida. Next week we go to Texas for the holidays where we will see more family for the remainder of our annual vacation. The change of pace is great! With partial internet access most communication continues and we can also catch up on a couple projects in between family visits. Will try to get some photos on next posting. Meanwhile, have a great rest-of-the-year at your house, remembering that the Savior really did come to save us and to gives us abundant life! Do you know Him yet?