I think we all have an opinion on what Christmas means to us. To some, it is just a vacation from work. In today's economy and work environment, just having a job is a reason to be thankful this Christmas. To others, it is a sense of family, perhaps a time to re-evaluate what is important in our lives. For sure, putting family first should be our first priority. With my and my wife's Italian heritage, family is of utmost importance to us. (unless you want a horse's head in your bed!). As I have gotten older, my sense of values have changed. Years ago, I defined myself by what I was and not who I was. I think most of us men make that mistake. We are a mechanic, or a salesman, or an engineer, or a trucker. Just read some obituaries and you will see how people define themselves (or how others defined them based on their value system). The obituaries always seem to read the same: Born, died, was a (insert profession here) for 20 years. THEN it goes into the loving wife, kids, grandkids, etc. A person's life should never be defined by what he did for a living. It should be defined by what he did when he wasn't working. Heck, some of the obituaries read like a want ad (Hey, he was a mechanic at the HD dealership, that means there is a job opening there!).
This Christmas I want to focus on the legacy of what I will leave on this earth when I pass on. The values I have taught my kids; the love I have showed my wife; the times I have been been there for my friends. The blessings we all have in our lives. I want to leave this world a better place than when I found it. Is that possible? Heck if I know. But I am willing to try. At least some bikes will be cleaner.
This Christmas, especially given the economic challenges facing us in this country, we need to think about those things that are most valuable to us. (and no, your motorcycle should not be at the top of your list!). So let me start......
Here is my top 5 things that I am thankful for this Christmas:
1. That I live in a country that grants us so many freedoms: the freedom to worship, the freedom of speech, the freedom to bear arms, the freedom to choose (unless you are in a state that mandates wearing a helmet!). I also acknowledge with humbling gratitude that these freedoms ,were not and will not remain, without a cost.
2. That I am blessed by an incredible family: my wife Tina ; my children (Chris, Jeff, LisaMarie, Tiffany, Lisa and Sarah), my brother, sister, niece and two grandkids -Vinnie and Johnny.
3. That I have some friends who have stuck with me through some of the most trying times in my life. And they have never judged me for my stupidity and poor decisions.
4. That I have a second chance at love. Thank you Tina.
5.

Tags: Christmas.Ramblings