At least in this part of the world, now is the time to be thankful for family and friends. And, lots of the holiday feeling is generated along with religious convictions and traditions.

Thing is, some of the people I'm closest to and most thankful for are Buddhists (Taike and family-my newest acquaintence is a Monk), and one of the very closest people on the Zone is not a person with conventional Christian beliefs.

All of this leads to my sincere appreciation for you folks, regardless of time of year, religious orientation or location.

Wouldn't it be great to enjoy the feeling we have at Christmas all year long and to share that feeling unilaterally?


Best personal wishes to all!


Russ

[This message has been edited by captain Russ (edited 12-18-2009).]

Thank you, Russ. The feeling is mutual.

There are some very nice people on SZ but you're still my favorite (have to keep the honors in the family)

Here's my small contribution for 2010 and after:

The greatest achievement is selflessness.
The greatest worth is self-mastery.
The greatest quality is seeking to serve others. (THE eminent quality of Russ)
The greatest precept is continual awareness.
The greatest medicine is the emptiness of everything.
The greatest action is not conforming with the worlds ways.
The greatest magic is transmuting the passions.
The greatest generosity is non-attachment.
The greatest goodness is a peaceful mind.
The greatest patience is humility.
The greatest effort is not concerned with results.
The greatest meditation is a mind that lets go.
The greatest wisdom is seeing through appearances.
~Atisha~

In criticizing, the teacher is hoping to teach. That's all.
~Bankei~

I wish all of you a Merry Christmas.

Please don't forget the needy ones.

Regards

Taike




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Bo pen nyang.