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From Father Brian D鈥橝rcy, a Catholic Passionist priest:

For the first time in years, I鈥檓 taking time to savour the many Christmas Cards arriving in the post. I鈥檓 looking at one now. Underneath a pencil drawing of a gentle nativity scene is this advice-: 鈥淭he one who masters others has power; the one who masters himself has strength.鈥�

It鈥檚 reminding me that, alongside the ordinary preparations for Christmas, I need to make time to think about what鈥檚 going on in my life. What can I do to focus on the spiritual meaning of this special season? What gives me inner strength?

When friends are kind enough to ask me what I want for Christmas, I plead with them not to give me anything. I have enough. There are plenty of struggling people who have genuine needs. Help them and both of us will be happier. They know I鈥檓 serious so that鈥檚 what they do.

What do you want for Christmas is still a great question, though? Children usually ask for the latest gadget or the must-have toy. Adults would appreciate some luxury they couldn鈥檛 afford themselves, though many end up with well-meant gifts they鈥檒l never use.

There鈥檚 still another angle to 鈥渨hat do you want for Christmas鈥�?聽 Those in hospital want to be home with their families. Those who have lost a loved one during the year would give anything to have their broken hearts mended. And if you have a child who is ill I know exactly what your answer would be: you鈥檇 give the whole world and every Christmas to have your child well again.

Which tells me that the things I take for granted are what someone else is praying for. As soon as I begin to give thanks for a little, I鈥檒l find a lot.

So what do you really want for Christmas? Eastern wisdom says that when a finger points to the moon, only a fool would look at the finger. Don鈥檛 miss the obvious. Be grateful for the many gifts you already have which are too valuable for money to buy.

The gifts of time, and love, a listening ear and a healing word are the ingredients of a truly happy Christmas.