Dear Reader Column 11-29-07

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Dear Reader,

I try to choose my words carefully when I write and I've been noticing that I should edit myself a little bit more when I'm saying words out loud, too. Especially now, around the holidays, because yesterday I was mumbling a "to-do" list and it went something like this:

I have to write out Christmas cards.

I have to buy my Granddaughter's birthday present.

I have to put the tree up in the living room and decorate it.

I have to go Christmas shopping.

I have to start baking my Christmas cookies.

The list went on-and-on and at the end of it I let out a huge sigh, because I felt tired and overwhelmed, but I hadn't even done anything yet, except think about the things I wanted to do. And that's the difference. I "want" to do these things, so why am I telling myself I "have" to do them?

I enjoy writing notes in Christmas cards. I even enjoy choosing a holiday stamp. (Though this year my choices are slim. So I think I'll use the James Stewart stamp--my favorite holiday movie is It's a Wonderful Life.) Decorating the tree, baking, buying gifts for people--I love doing these things. It's fun. And you know what? It will be a pleasure to do them--because I "want" to.

Thanks for reading with me. It's so good to read with friends.

Suzanne Beecher
Suzanne@DearReader.com 
http://www.DearReader.com

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