Dear Friends,
Advent is a season during which we are encouraged to wait in hope for the coming of the Christ-child into our homes and into our hearts. This year, we find ourselves torn between this very real hope and the darkness which creeps over our world. It brings to mind Henry Wadsworth Longfellow’s words to the traditional Christmas Carol: “I heard the Bells on Christmas Day.” The second verse reads: “And in despair I bowed my head. ‘There is no peace on earth,’ I said, ‘for hate is strong and mocks the song of peace on earth, good will to men.’”
With each passing day, our prayer is that calm heads will prevail and that war will be avoided. As Jimmy Carter said when accepting the Nobel Peace Prize: “Sometimes war is a necessary evil, but even when it is necessary, it never ceases to be evil.” It is our hope that we will some day live in a world where war is never considered necessary, but only evil.
As far as family news is concerned, we continue to be healthy, busy and happy: Karen with retreat work, days of prayer, and spiritual direction; Pat with marriage preparation, teaching religion classes, and (for retirement fun) computer projects. We spent 2 ½ weeks in France in April. We had a wonderful time in Paris, the Loire Valley, and cruising down the Rhone River. Given the economy, we will probably travel domestically next year – perhaps along the Eastern seaboard.
Deb and Joe are doing well with libraries and menageries (two dogs and three cats). Joe is the new director of the library in Boerne, Texas – a charming, small town – and Deb is a reference librarian at the main San Antonio library.
Ken and Tracey and their six beautiful kids are doing well. They are home schooling the oldest four this year. We stand in awe of their courage and commitment. Ken’s software company merged with one from California and he is adjusting to the new policies and procedures here in Houston.
Chris (Kip) and Kelly have had some struggles this fall. Kelly was diagnosed with breast cancer and had surgery in November. From all indications, they caught it early; treatment will be minimal and recovery assured. We are truly thankful for the early diagnosis. In a different kind of “struggle” – the Oak Ridge football team, for which Chris is an assistant coach, made it to the state semi-finals for its division.
To all our friends and relatives, may this Christmas bring you personal joy, and may the coming year be one of happiness and many blessings.