[12/24/2024]
Seasons Greetings My Fellow Lighting Souls,
Carol (my partner in service) and I wish you and your family a very merry joyful Christmas, a Happy Hanukkah, Happy Kwanza. Even if you do not celebrate these holidays, I sincerely hope you spend some quality time with family, friends, and those you value most. And simply pausing to reflect as the year draws to a close, this season carries profound significance. Oh, How can I forget to mention Winter Solstice in this hemisphere which has significance impact.
I love these holidays (even though I was raised Hindu) for so many reasons. It is usually a time to pause and reflect on our blessings. You are one of those blessings and I am so appreciative of you being a part of our Lions Community. We have a choice to either spend the holiday season mindlessly caught up in this country's commercial approach or to mindfully appreciate the deep spiritual significance of holidays like Christmas, Hanukkah, Kwanza, and Diwali (Hindu festival of lights was several weeks ago). These holidays are festivals of light. All these festivals are decorated with beautiful lights. It is not coincidence, but by grand design by the creator. I love these holidays. I admit I even get giddy and even cherish the thought of Santa Claus.
As we gather with loved ones, participate in cherished traditions, or take time to reflect on the year ahead, I encourage you to consider the light you have brought into the light of others. Remember our theme this year is: "BEING A LIGHT WE SERVE". Think about how your presence has made someone's day a little brighter. Let that thought inspire you to expand your heart and fully present in every interaction. Our world needs our open heart, universal love, and Light like ours. The environment has become so caustic nowadays.
This is also a season of transition (just like the Winter Solstice) - a perfect time to ask ourselves how we can share more of our lights with the world. We are so unique and essential part of this incredible universe, and living with gratitude and better intention, we not only enrich our life but lift those around us. This is also an impermanent world. Nothing remains the same. If we find ourselves feeling the emotions that come with missing someone who is no longer physically here, I encourage you to honor those feelings with kindness and compassion.
No doubt this is a challenging time in these circumstances and specially this time of the year. It is important to allow ourselves the grace we feel and gently guide our thoughts toward Gratitude- for the wonderful memories we shared, the lessons they taught us, and the love that will always remain.Remember they are not truly gone. Their presence is still with us, woven into our lives in ways that continue to shape and inspire us. Let that thought bring us comfort and peace.
Time for some more reflection: and as I look back on the past year, I am filled with appreciation for the trust and connection we have shared. I am new to this District, the team
of Past District Governors thrusted me into this position, I did not know much of you but most of you stepped up to serve along with me when asked and formed the District team. Our journey, our growth and our energy have inspired me, and I feel truly blessed to be part of your life. Thank you for your efforts and contributions serving your community and improving the quality of lives, which in turn helps us ALL to make a better world. REMEMBER THAT BETTER US CREATES A BETTER WORLD.
You know my love for music and playing in our cabinet meetings. I could not let the day pass without reaching out to you without gratitude appreciation, and a little gift to your Holiday Season. The song below was written I think mid 1900's, sung by many, but I am little partial to Carrie Underwood. Listen and enjoy with your family. This is also to hear anytime of the year.
Carol and I wish each of you a season filled with peace, connection, and gratitude. Let this holiday nurture your spirit, remind you of all the goodness in life, and inspire you to
Live your best life. the best life becomes better and better.
With much gratitude and love
Bijoy and Carol
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