That 'season' has arrived once again. A gentle reminder to us all that things can be different - if only we let them.

Perhaps you celebrate the birth of Christ at this time, or the festival of lights known as Chanukah, or just the winter's solstice. It really doesn't matter how you express it, for we're all different and this is one of the true miracles. We are apart, yet we're together.

This is the time of year when we take pause and reflect on what we have, where we are, how we're doing, and most important, who we are. It's also a time for renewal, for a fresh start, for the making of resolutions. It's a very special time, a crossroads in the journey of life.

On of the great traditions of this season is the giving of gifts. You've heard, as have I, that it's more blessed to give than to receive, and I know this to be true. The joy I experience seeing pleasure and appreciation in the eyes of another, just because of some little thing I have done, is immense. Very few experiences exceed the simple response of heartfelt happiness which I then know, even when it lasts only for the briefest of moments.

If I had the power, I would have every being in this world know this feeling - even if only for an instant. I believe this would change the world.

Like you, I'd give much more than I could count to be able to make a difference of this magnitude. Recognizing my limitations, I know I cannot.

But, I can do something. I can offer you a gift and hope that, by some small miracle, it will make a difference in your life - for the better. It is sent from my heart and it is yours to do with as you will. Please accept it in this spirit.

As you face the new year, know that the greatest part of the happiness you deserve is in those moments that you share with another. Every contact you have with another is a 'moment of truth' - a never to be repeated opportunity to make a real difference to them - and to you.

Here is a 'magic' perception that will magnify every one of these “moments of truth'. All you need to do is believe it to the point that it becomes a part of you for them to see and experience. In every contact and communication, affirm within yourself:

• I'll hold no thought / commit any action that erodes your personal dignity.

• I will state my intentions at the beginning of each communication.

• I will expose, at your request, each and every assumption that I hold.

• I will seek out and verify any assumptions I believe you are holding.

• I will always presume your intentions to be positive and constructive.

• I'll use a test of clarity, like summarizing or questioning, before I respond.

• I will seek to understand your viewpoint before I allow any judgment.

• I will reveal my understanding and intended action before I move on.

For if I do this in every moment of truth, there will be fewer misunderstandings, much less friction and hurt, less conflict.

In every moment of truth there will be more acceptance, greater learning and deeper appreciation.

The real joy is that others don't have to do a thing for this to happen. I can do it all myself. It is mine - and now it's yours - and no one can ever diminish it or take it away.

May the joys of this season, and of all time, be yours.

You have the power...make it so!