In this last shopping day before Christmas, in this time when ovens are heating and families are gathering around the table, now is a good time to stop for a moment and find a quiet place.The stopping doesn’t have to take long. A moment in isolation or with someone, it doesn’t matter as long as the pace slows down. Now, take a deep breath and think for a moment.Think about the goodness in the world. Yes, right here in Selma.

If you can’t think of something good, let us remind you of the people who have donated food to the Food Pantry or Bosco, so others might have. Remember those who will benefit from the Salvation Army’s Christmas drive or for those who the bikers provided for with the Angel Tree. Think about those three boys whose quick action Saturday likely saved a woman from dying in her trailer when it burned.

There is goodness in the world, despite the arguments over politics and caste and class. There are people who reach out to others in spite of greed and jealousy that seems to abound.

Take a moment to understand the reality of things. We might not get all we want in material possessions or money or food. But, for the most part, many of us are warm, healthy and well-fed.

Whether you are Christian or not, it is the time for reflection. For slowing down. For appreciating what we have. For those of us who are Christians, it is a time of celebration. Our hope and savior came down to us and gave his life so we could have life more abundantly. For this we should offer a silent prayer during our quiet times. This is the best gift, something of which none of us are worthy.

In that spirit, happy Christmas.