tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5914092373936984359.post5833647931253666099..comments2023-04-07T10:28:40.530+01:00Comments on Rum-Punch Drunk: 2 Sides to ChristmasRum-Punch Drunkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13531893705181077869noreply@blogger.comBlogger45125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5914092373936984359.post-15822654201759266992013-03-16T09:14:08.952+00:002013-03-16T09:14:08.952+00:00In a nutshell, precisely. Thanks for stopping by M...In a nutshell, precisely. Thanks for stopping by Mr Potato. Rum-Punch Drunkhttps://www.blogger.com/profile/13531893705181077869noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5914092373936984359.post-32887030077974582582013-03-13T16:24:37.411+00:002013-03-13T16:24:37.411+00:00Prayer for the faithful and gift giving.
Wild part...Prayer for the faithful and gift giving.<br />Wild party for the commercials.<br />Mister Potatohttps://www.blogger.com/profile/04307618799610852151noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5914092373936984359.post-28299935244847205472012-12-22T15:51:32.866+00:002012-12-22T15:51:32.866+00:00You're so right. As we get older, the innocenc...You're so right. As we get older, the innocence of our young lives fade in the wind, then in comes reality with a bump. We see things as they really are, while yet remembering the fairy-tales we once believed. Thanks Lifeologist.Rum-Punch Drunkhttps://www.blogger.com/profile/13531893705181077869noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5914092373936984359.post-20655604342090297222012-12-22T15:42:22.900+00:002012-12-22T15:42:22.900+00:00Times change, as I grew up the magic started disap...Times change, as I grew up the magic started disappearing. Sometimes I think Christmas is still here because of the nostalgia of our parents wanting to not ruin such a wonderful experience they once might have had. I honestly think this is how traditions are made, our silly attempts to secure something once was truly beautiful, but in reality we're maybe not even qualified enough to preserve it anymore. Times change, and as times change, the world must change with it - that is a reality we must confess to ourselves.Lifeologisthttps://www.blogger.com/profile/14960332277996016138noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5914092373936984359.post-632347965591925542012-12-22T14:49:17.284+00:002012-12-22T14:49:17.284+00:00Oh JerseyLil, I've just read this, and my hear...Oh JerseyLil, I've just read this, and my heart goes out to you. I'm so sorry that every year brings back such bad memories for you. I'm also sorry I didn't get to this sooner.<br /><br />Wow, it's seems like Christmas for you is a distillation that brings together some really significant events in your past and desires for your future. It happens sometimes that when I read comments I am moved very deeply and you have touched me with your story.<br /><br />I'm so glad that instead of becoming bitter or just indulging in self-pity, you have made the decision to take your Christmas and share it with those who are going through their struggles right now. I take my hat off to you.Rum-Punch Drunkhttps://www.blogger.com/profile/13531893705181077869noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5914092373936984359.post-8802484519923452982012-12-22T14:41:33.625+00:002012-12-22T14:41:33.625+00:00Yun Yi, you have definitely seen it from all angle...Yun Yi, you have definitely seen it from all angles. There is a lot of competition in the retail industry and Christmas is the time when everyone has to sell, sell, sell, so I can only imagine the huge pressure you were under. Sorry to hear about your bankruptcy, as I'm sure that was a tough time for you too, but at least like you said, you don't have to worry during this season now. <br /><br />You also mentioned having a 'lonesome feeling'. At times like these many people are talking about meeting with family or friends or doing things in couples and if you don't have this network of people around you it can be a very lonely time. Rum-Punch Drunkhttps://www.blogger.com/profile/13531893705181077869noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5914092373936984359.post-77730171808859327182012-12-13T16:55:24.337+00:002012-12-13T16:55:24.337+00:00I used to be in retail business. So Christmas mean...I used to be in retail business. So Christmas meant a time to make some money. Since my business in regular season did not bring profits, holiday season also meant the huge pressure, because rent was sky high. I remember that time, most small retail business owners were under such stress, some made money, but some faced tremendous loss. I finally left mall in 2008, with "bankruptcy". Since then, every Christmas I feel relieved that I no longer have to be in that crazy mall, worrying how much I paid for rent and inventory, how much I sold my products, or how many portraits I had done.<br />On personal life side, being single for years, I don't share the warm color tone with most people who celebrate it with families. There were a few times, of course, very shortly, I would experience some lonesome feeling, but overall, I always try to enjoy everyday of my life just the same way.<br />Thanks for a post that triggers my thoughts. Yun Yihttps://www.blogger.com/profile/06311104014692132715noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5914092373936984359.post-5437685960054864892012-12-13T08:07:28.426+00:002012-12-13T08:07:28.426+00:00Thanks Blue Bead. What is your book about?Thanks Blue Bead. What is your book about?Rum-Punch Drunkhttps://www.blogger.com/profile/13531893705181077869noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5914092373936984359.post-22287624969967587872012-12-13T08:06:45.101+00:002012-12-13T08:06:45.101+00:00Thanks Phil, I truly hope that you and your family...Thanks Phil, I truly hope that you and your family/friends have a good time together this year. Rum-Punch Drunkhttps://www.blogger.com/profile/13531893705181077869noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5914092373936984359.post-15571409678949373692012-12-13T08:05:51.708+00:002012-12-13T08:05:51.708+00:00Frank. You come in the category of having one of t...Frank. You come in the category of having one of the hardest jobs around because each week you have to inspire others, help people to keep their faith in God whilst living in a real world with mistrust, unbelief and destruction all around. Christmas is a big christian event although it has changed in many ways. <br /><br />I love the idea of being part of an outreach because you can get to physically/emotionally help others, and to give others some sort of hope in life. A kind word, something to eat, fresh clothes, a fresh approach to an ongoing bad situation can go a very long way. Thanks Frank. Rum-Punch Drunkhttps://www.blogger.com/profile/13531893705181077869noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5914092373936984359.post-5462490811039318242012-12-13T08:03:51.946+00:002012-12-13T08:03:51.946+00:00NP you need to spend some time with me for real. I...NP you need to spend some time with me for real. I just love your cool, calm, loving persona. At least you never had to experience some of the issues I raised in my post. Thanks NP.Rum-Punch Drunkhttps://www.blogger.com/profile/13531893705181077869noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5914092373936984359.post-11846432433892794402012-12-13T02:39:24.146+00:002012-12-13T02:39:24.146+00:00I only celebrate Christmas when I am visiting fami...I only celebrate Christmas when I am visiting family in London. Otherwise, I spend the day sending out my book and generally being a lazy, but peaceful bum. Blue Beadhttp://www.bluebeadpublications.comnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5914092373936984359.post-47734275217797122422012-12-12T21:44:10.662+00:002012-12-12T21:44:10.662+00:00This is a very well versed post. I have mixed feel...This is a very well versed post. I have mixed feelings about the commercializing Christmas has become but I still enjoy the holiday season. Even though I enjoy this time of year with family and friends I am well aware of those less fortunate and do try to give as much as I can. In all I try to stay hopeful and optimistic during the holidays as a new year approaches. Anonymoushttps://www.blogger.com/profile/13743646207453247092noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5914092373936984359.post-69728065251679343842012-12-12T18:11:57.741+00:002012-12-12T18:11:57.741+00:00As usual, you have written a thought-provoking pos...As usual, you have written a thought-provoking post. I do enjoy Christmas. It is one of my favorite times of the years. Being a Christian, the focal meaning of Christmas Day to me is that it is the day we have chosen to commemorate the birth of Christ, the Savior. God demonstrated His love to the world by giving us His only Son.<br /><br />But Christmas is often much busier than I want it to be. Not because of shopping because I do very little of that. But being a preacher, I spend lots of time preparing for and attending special religious gatherings. While people are busy shopping and decorating, I am often looking for a fresh angle to inspire people of faith during the season. <br /><br />One of the highlights of Christmas is taking time to spend extra time with family and friends. We must be careful not to allow ourselves to be swallowed up in the busyness of the season. To me, there is nothing fulfilling about shopping to you drop, getting in debt, and the massive returns and exchanges the days following Christmas day. <br /><br />Last, but not least, we must remember those who are less fortunate. Though Christmas may not be about toys and gifts, it's hard for poor children to believe that when they have nothing and other kids have all the things they can only dream about. I like being part of outreaches to make a little child smile, even if only for Christmas Day.Frank Kinghttps://www.blogger.com/profile/07155126596496270174noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5914092373936984359.post-41507384003399452822012-12-12T16:44:11.633+00:002012-12-12T16:44:11.633+00:00I don't celebrate Christmas, never have, so it...I don't celebrate Christmas, never have, so it has no meaning or affect on me. To me every day of the year, every minute of the day, is, in a sense, Christmas, a time for love and joy and communion with other human beings.nothingprofoundhttp://wwwaphorismscom.blogspot.comnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5914092373936984359.post-78196570843631353892012-12-11T20:15:58.348+00:002012-12-11T20:15:58.348+00:00Yes, but it's a shame if we have to regard it ...Yes, but it's a shame if we have to regard it as something we wait to pass. Much better if we can find our own way to celebrate and enjoy it, even if that means having to find our own way, outside of what the mainstream does. Thanks Ric.<br />Rum-Punch Drunkhttps://www.blogger.com/profile/13531893705181077869noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5914092373936984359.post-53704977447227152732012-12-11T20:15:08.800+00:002012-12-11T20:15:08.800+00:00I know what you mean about the little ones, but do...I know what you mean about the little ones, but do you know what studies have shown matters most to them? T.I.M.E. The loving attention of adults who take time out of their schedules, worries and stress to play with them, tell them stories and make them laugh and smile. Children are far less materialistic than many adults grow up to be. So a child who is given that gift is richer in many ways than the one whose parent tries to compensate for lack of time by throwing money and expensive gifts at them. Thanks for your comment Menopausal mama.<br />Rum-Punch Drunkhttps://www.blogger.com/profile/13531893705181077869noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5914092373936984359.post-63816286405515196012012-12-11T20:13:52.939+00:002012-12-11T20:13:52.939+00:00If I had one major aim for this post, it would be ...If I had one major aim for this post, it would be for people to think about those who may not be due to have as good a time as them - and think of something, no matter how small, that they could do to help make it a little better.Thanks Shauntee.Rum-Punch Drunkhttps://www.blogger.com/profile/13531893705181077869noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5914092373936984359.post-62621657898852905032012-12-11T20:12:11.072+00:002012-12-11T20:12:11.072+00:00Perhaps it's down to all those positive experi...Perhaps it's down to all those positive experiences you've had in the past that you are able to carry it inside you now as an attitude. The season has come to resonate on its own account with all the positive associations you have built up over the years.<br /><br />I suppose that's why it's so important to make sure it's a special time for the sake of children. Those memories will stay with them for the rest of their lives. Thanks June. Rum-Punch Drunkhttps://www.blogger.com/profile/13531893705181077869noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5914092373936984359.post-40940828756330851612012-12-11T20:11:14.655+00:002012-12-11T20:11:14.655+00:00You sound like a free thinker Melody. Making your ...You sound like a free thinker Melody. Making your own choices of how to celebrate, rather than getting caught up with the herd. Who knows, someone may be inspired by you to find a way to celebrate that doesn't get them into debt this year. Thanks for your comment Melody. Rum-Punch Drunkhttps://www.blogger.com/profile/13531893705181077869noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5914092373936984359.post-53706718349680591402012-12-11T20:10:23.006+00:002012-12-11T20:10:23.006+00:00Please accept my condolences, this is dreadful new...Please accept my condolences, this is dreadful news. Bereavement turns happy occasions into the exact opposites, and festive events become ordeals to get through rather than enjoy. I've personally experienced this. <br /><br />I enjoyed visiting your blog and it was a pleasure to leave a comment to show my appreciation. Thanks Jackie.Rum-Punch Drunkhttps://www.blogger.com/profile/13531893705181077869noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5914092373936984359.post-61792961084231206642012-12-11T20:09:27.782+00:002012-12-11T20:09:27.782+00:00Thanks Michelle. Forewarned is forearmed as they s...Thanks Michelle. Forewarned is forearmed as they say. Alcohol has usually got a part to play in loosening the tongue at such events, ha ha ha.Rum-Punch Drunkhttps://www.blogger.com/profile/13531893705181077869noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5914092373936984359.post-35888170839354689682012-12-11T20:08:37.379+00:002012-12-11T20:08:37.379+00:00Thanks Jon. I did have a good read of your Christm...Thanks Jon. I did have a good read of your Christmas post and left you a comment there. If anyone would like to have read then please follow this link:<br /><a href="http://jonwhiting55.blogspot.co.uk/2012/12/happy-holidays.html" rel="nofollow">Happy Holidays</a>Rum-Punch Drunkhttps://www.blogger.com/profile/13531893705181077869noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5914092373936984359.post-75149171067882376412012-12-11T20:07:52.594+00:002012-12-11T20:07:52.594+00:00Thanks Ziva :)Thanks Ziva :)Rum-Punch Drunkhttps://www.blogger.com/profile/13531893705181077869noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5914092373936984359.post-90021922340813062562012-12-11T20:07:11.311+00:002012-12-11T20:07:11.311+00:00A very touching comment Dan, and thanks for sharin...A very touching comment Dan, and thanks for sharing your personal story here. Rum-Punch Drunkhttps://www.blogger.com/profile/13531893705181077869noreply@blogger.com