Love it or hate it, Halloween is just around the corner. How should Christians, and for that matter non-Christians, respond to Halloween? Personally, Halloween has never meant much to me as a holiday. Our family has participated in the traditions of the day but the ghoulish aspects of Halloween don’t resonate with me. I am grateful for insight, given years ago, by Dennis Hansen who taught our church group about the history of the holiday- many aspects of which have origins in fine Christian doctrine. I can’t say the modern day celebration is an uplift to me but my thoughts are pleasantly tempered by knowledge of the original “Halloween.”

Sadie has been in our home nearly 3 years. She is a wonderful addition of love and companionship. There are moments in which she tries to show she is tough, ready to battle and fight to protect her territory. But alas she is rather cowardly when her supposed aggression is challenged. She is a sweet, tender-hearted, member of our family. I am very grateful she is with us.

It is hard to imagine that God can have unconditional love for His children. When we make good choices and do what is right God can bless us. When we don’t, He is not able to bestow certain blessings, but He still loves us. As our Heavenly Father, he loves us even when we might not be “deserving” of that love. I am grateful for the example of Jenna and others in my life. Some of these special individuals come to earth with the ability to love, almost no matter what. Their example gives us an inkling of the great love that our Father in Heaven has for us. 

Not everyone is thrilled with the family photographer. He or she is always lurking about, shooting images at every event and even at the “non-events.” I am grateful for my family that supports my addiction. Perhaps “embrace” would be too strong, but “tolerance” might fit well. 

I am grateful for babies. Everyone loves to see and hold them. They come to earth with an innocence and brightness that is sometimes dimmed through the struggles and trials of life. May we hold them out as a remembrance of who we really are. May we emmulate their contentment and happiness.