Here in Calgary the weather is relatively balmy, we have a good coating of snow, family and friends galore with fellowship and good cheer. All have warm beds and plenty to eat.

I encountered one of our hundreds of homeless men a few blocks from our home the other day. He has a bicycle with racing tires definitely not suited to snow and ice. He was trying to manhandle three plastic bags full of bottles and cans that he was taking to the recycling depot a couple of city miles from here. Ice on his beard and moustache, thin clothing but his first words to me were "I'm going to make it, I can do it." And he could and I'm sure he did. I gave him a Christmas bonus and my best wishes and returned to my family with lots to think about and lots to be thankful for.

Merry Christmas and all the best in the new year.