"November 23 is the 327th day of the year"
"38 days remain until the end of the year."
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/November_23
November 23rd should be Theatre Day because in 534 BC Thespis of Icarus created the on-stage character, and invented Tragedy. What was the last play you attended Live?
There are just six short weeks until the new year, will you make the most of them? What are you going to do to 'wrap things up' in 2025? What are you going to prepare for 2026?
This week I have some goals, and many tasks to do. Chores to complete too, and people to contact. In completing November I need to track not just Expenses, but complete my year-end review and prepare my budget for 2026. I am doing this manually using index cards, blank paper and envelopes, but for some of this finale I may create some spreadsheets to review. Everything is done first though with pen and paper on a clipboard, it is so easy anyone can do it even you.
How many presents are you planning to buy for Family and Friends this Christmas? Will you write out Christmas cards and send photographs with well-wishes? Are you going to visit family on any particular days of the week, or do you have specific plans for Christmas and New Years?
Most of us do work through the holidays and the cheerful holiday spirit can uplift us when the days are short and the nights are long, and the weather is so very cold. Try to help those in need when you are able to and have the opportunity, try not to say no to a request for help this season. Remember that everyone is going through something and we might be in their position at some point in life.
When we talk about the virtues of the season they are Hope, Peace and Joy, in the Good news of Christ's birth but also trusting God to work in our lives even in darkness. Charity, Generosity, Humility and Gratitude are the keys to finding that in our own lives. We offer compassion and kindness to others and forgiveness too, to reconcile during the holidays.
Sometimes we may feel that we can't do enough, but we can do something, so when the opportunity to forgive, to be humble, or to be grateful presents itself-- say yes.
Will I make the most of these six weeks? As long as I keep travelling safely and rest whenever I get the chance, I should make it to the new year. I have some important milestones to hit this week and next month, so it is time to get started. Will you do something different this next year? Where do you plan to be, a year from now? On November 23rd 2026 will You be any different than today?