Some years in the north central United States we have abundant snow by now. For children and the young in heart it's always exciting, something new and usually unexpected. It means winter sports, playing in the snow, snowball fights, a world transformed into a white wonderland. For many older and/or jaded people it means only difficulty in getting around and snow removal. Unfortunately, even allowing for people's preferences about weather and winter, we tend to bring the same yawn and boredom to other more undeniable gifts and surprises in life.

Why do we stop being excited by a great smile? A lively and exhilarating personality? A beautiful face or handsome appearance? Is it a sign of greater sophistication that we allow ourselves to be bowled over only by very expensive or rare things and aren't fazed by the miracles of daily life? Is there some peer pressure that requires we leave enthusiasm and great delight for the young and naive, which says it is unbecoming in those of more experience? Unapologetic enjoyment is a great good, really a praise of God, the source of all our good. Do we allow it into our lives?

— Don Talafous OSB
dtalafous@csbsju.edu

Saint John’s Abbey
Saint John’s University

Editor’s Note: A suggestion for a unique Christmas gift: Fr. Don Talafous’s new book, a collection of his reflections. They offer hope and encouragement. While they come from the mind, heart, and PC of a Catholic Benedictine, these reflections appeal to church-goers, skeptics, and even those of little if any relation to organized religion. Order here: Musings: A Benedictine on Christian Life