Merry Christmas to all! I hope your holiday was filled with love, and the joys of giving linger long. Personally, i really enjoyed my first married Christmas with Sarah’s terrific family. I love my in-laws, and all the rich holiday traditions they have so eagerly made me a part of. Thanks, Riggios!

Right now, Muslims in Pakistan are feeling the anticipation for Eid ul-Adha (Jan 10th, this year) where gifts are given, with a particular concern for the poor. Christmas is not widely celebrated in Pakistan, but while i was there, i heard many references to “December 25th”. It wasn’t in the context of presents, holidays, or shopping though. This is the oft-quoted date for when the winter snows get started - a very present threat in the mind of many a homeless mountain villager.

I was saddened by the negative association with one of my most joyful days of the year. I have been motivated to pray for a delay in the impending onset of winter. Right now, that seems like the best gift i can offer my Pakistani friends. Current weather reports seem to indicate that heavy snows have not yet started, thankfully. Maybe this year, Dec. 25th passed with a little joy after all!

May this gift continue to be given, day by day, as more shelters get built!