security in... t h i n g s

this time of year i always get discouraged with people and their love for things. 

as hard as i try, i'm convicted of it too... so it's not like i feel like i'm all better than ya'll... americans especially just have this freedom.  it's not freedom of religion, press, and expression.  i'm not talking about our rights... to bear arms, or the right to a speedy trial, or confrontation of witnesses.  i'm talking about this unspoken freedom that we all feel that we have the right to own a lot, and want a lot more. 

i was pointed in the direction of this blog by a wise mentor of mine (the mentor's blog isn't really anything i'd suggest reading... it could be, but she emails out her wisdom personally and leaves the blogging for extra stuff that isn't that great).  i didn't go to her suggested blog right away.  she, my mentor, is often long-winded and although she is FULL of WONDERFUL advice and words... it takes a while to get them all out of her.  i assumed this reading would take a while... 

today i finally read it and i'm just blown away at such a simple perspective.  i want you to go and read it and tell me what you think about it.  please.  (yes, i did give you three different links to choose from.  all of them lead to the same place!)
what do you think about the materialism of christmas?
what are some of your favorite traditions? 
do gifts really mean THAT MUCH to you, personally?!  be honest.  i know i'm not like most people...  i just want to know what you think...

Try to remember, "I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me."