On this Christmas Day 2025, I’m aware we can find this time of year very stressful. We usually have extra events to attend, year end deadlines to meet and, of course, the shopping, wrapping and exchanging those Christmas presents. Let me tell you a short story that recently happened.
The morning of this writing, someone gave me a very special gift that not only surprised me but completely made my day. It was a beautifully autographed harmonica from one of my favorite entertainers, Mickey Rafael of the Willie Nelson Band. I sat it on my desk at work and looked at it on and off throughout the afternoon.
What made it so special? The person who gave it to me overheard me in conversation express an interest in Mickey and his music. She took the time to contact the entertainer, obtain the harmonica, and hand deliver it to me. As much as I love the gift, the effort and care she put into giving me something that she knew would delight me meant even more. So, just maybe, it IS the thought that counts. The entire concept of Christmas rests on the precept that God thought of you and me and sent us this gift; His son. The gift even came wrapped “…in swaddling clothing and lying in a manger.”
The older I get, the more I understand that every day is a gift and the people I love are the actual wrapping that makes each moment so special.
So, for you this Christmas, these are my wishes: That you could spend an evening hand-in-hand with the person you love most, a steaming cup on the table in front of you, just listening to the quiet notes of your favorite Christmas Carol.
That you could share a knock-knock joke with a four-year-old, even if you have to guide them through the process. “Knock-knock.” “Now you’re supposed to say, Who’s there?’” That you could sit with the family elders and encourage them to tell those familiar stories just one more time… because you never know who might be missing around the table this time next year.
That you could rest in the assurance that you are loved, by family, by friends and by that thoughtful Gift given over two thousand years ago.
On behalf of Heather, Stephanie and our entire Chamber family, we wish you the warmest, brightest, holiday season you’ve ever had. And, um…
Knock, knock! Who’s there?
Anna. Anna who?
Anna partridge in a pear tree.
Dirk Webb is the President/ CEO of the St. Cloud Chamber of Commerce.
