Susan’s Thoughts on Christmas 2003
Susan Rochat, December 25, 2003
“What do you really want for Christmas?” was the question of the day.
Is it a brand new sweater, or tickets to the ballet?
Would it be a Mercedes, or you’d be happy with a bike?
What would make you happy now, what would you really like?
A couple pairs of socks, perhaps, new jeans, a stunning tie?
You seem to be so pensive---Is that a teardrop in your eye?
You blurt out softly and so sadly, “Oh no, none of the above,
I want my family home for Christmas, I want to touch the ones I love.”
The world is reeling from war casualties, from hunger and disease,
Precious loved ones dying in distant battles overseas.
How could I ask for more possessions when I have so much today?
For peace and love and quiet times with family, I pray.
“What do you really want for Christmas?” is still the question of the day.
A world that is at peace for once, where terror holds no sway.
Where soldiers aren’t sent off to fight where peace cannot be won,
For peace comes when our hearts are changed, not by bombs or sword or gun.
Lord, change our hearts to speak your love, to show your way of life.
We cannot change our world one whit with killing and with strife.
Show us each one just how to live and care for those in need,
Loving our neighbors everyone, without thought of self or greed.
You’ve taught us, Lord, to love our enemies and turn the other cheek,
Please show us how to do just that, without appearing weak.
What I really want for Christmas is a little bit of heaven,
Love, peace, joy and gratitude for what I already have been given.
Blessed are the meek, for they shall inherit the earth.
Matthew 5:5
Susan and Roger celebrate their 37th anniversary Dec 26. Roger continues to enjoy working with CDC, teaching students at Emory and consulting with Pathfinder International (yes, more travel!). The “kids” are doing well! We are enjoying time with Mel and Greg and his family. David continues to run his computer consulting business from home and has started skydiving as well as rock climbing! Michael & Suzette have moved to Georgia at least until next August; Suzette has joined CDC as Michael finishes up his Ed.D. --he hopes to graduate this May! We hope you have a happy Christmas and New Year!
With fond love to each,
Roger & Susan