The holiday season begins earlier and earlier every year, but some argue that the season starts once Christmas lights, perched upon every roof and tree, sit proudly aglow. Lights come in all shapes, colors, sizes, brightness and styles. Some houses fashion the classic large, white bulbs while other homes dangle icicle lights across windows and doors while others purchase the new brighter blue or purple lights that are eye catching. The holiday lights and decorations we put up every year are unique to us and our families.



In every neighborhood, there always seems to be one house that stands out above the rest. Every inch of the house, inside and out, is covered in lights. Even the trees and the snow-covered yard are decorated in some way. The most dedicated homes may even coordinate a light show to commemorate the holiday season. Through careful engineering, families can set their lights to music such as "Amazing Grace" or "Carol of the Bells." Adults and children alike can appreciate the well-timed light flickering and flashes of brilliant color amidst a snowy landscape. It's truly amazing how the advancement of technology has also changed the way we decorate during the holiday season.

Just as each house during the holidays is decorated differently, we too are all unique individuals. Some lights are bright and vibrant just like the extroverted and outgoing people of this world. Some lights are classic with a warm glow just like the peacemakers we all know. And some lights are flashy and luminescent representing the people who promote change and the common good through out our country and abroad. Each house in each neighborhood is a testament to our unique differences, and Christmas light show honors that individuality.

When the Holiday lights come down after New Year's, we can still honor our differences through loving acts of kindness and positive words that we use with each other. Words have power and used lovingly, can resonate in the hearts of all people, just like the warm Christmas bulbs sitting upon each and every rooftop. Kind, loving, thoughtful words can really bring about a change in the atmosphere of your home, office or school.

This holiday season let's look at the beautiful Christmas lights in our neighborhoods with new found appreciation. We are all unique, just like each individual string of lights, and if we, as unique individuals, work together, we can create something amazing - just like a beautiful Christmas light show.