Christmas Eve

well, merry christmas and happy new years to everyone, first and foremost. may the blessings of a new and fresh year to begin your endeavors with follow you all the year through. it has a been a difficult year, from beginning to end, on the screens of our televisions and through the lenses of our very own eyes. the world is becoming more violent, dangerous, crowded, and complicated with every passing second... and today is a joyous day! because my daughter is eighteen years old today, a watershed in one's life, a passing from the societal stigmata of being a child into the more versatile title of adult. a day to remember and to celebrate, to be sure. i am so proud of her today, so proud of this woman sitting before me with strength in her eyes and love in her heart, peace in her words and intelligence behind her smile. no words can express the pride and joy, love and happiness that a father feels on this day to see his daughter's face shining with joy. Merry Christmas, praise God and bless His holy name for my blessings. Happy birthday Hayley, and may God watch over your steps forever.