Sending Christmas message to Congress

The economy has forced us all to begin thinking of Christmas, whether we want to or not. With stores decorated with red and green, just after the swimming pools closed, and with ads heralding the shopping frenzy to begin this year as the turkey comes out of the oven, for those with jobs it is difficult to ignore.

Old Man Winter and the queen of color, Lady Fall, have been waging turf wars on our neighborhood lawns. Before our eyes, the battlefield transforms. Yesterday’s sun-ignited red and gold leaves, which carpeted the grassy areas, were swept by blustery winds under the bushes and replaced by snow puffs on still green blades. We all know how this story ends and we have learned to accept the ultimate outcome.

We are not required, however, to accept the petty battles taking place in Congress on these pre-Christmas days. Nevertheless, we should stop here. Mixing politics and the joy of Christmas, even during a ruined economy, is never wise. However, as we turn to celebrating the birthday of the Christian world’s King of Kings, who teaches us to care for the least among us with a joyful heart, we can only pray that Congress hears that important message, ignores the pressure of their rich benefactors and corporate lobbyists, and does what is right for the American people.

Gail Talbot

Huntley