There are various times throughout the year that have the ability to move us all - significant events, milestones, family, cultural, and community-driven occasions, each with attributes and contributing factors that provide joy, fulfillment, and happiness.

Over the years, I have had a variety of different Christmases - big, small, good, bad, fulfilling, and not so much. One common denominator is that the objective of the day is always to use the opportunity and occasion to embrace one another, to utilize this moment to put our best foot forward and have a moment of peace and unity.

Happiness is making the most of every occasion, making the most of an opportunity that presents itself. Although various occasions are concepts or ideas that may have been driven by consumerism or artificially fabricated to promote a product or service, if they are fundamentally grounded in connection, love, joy, and happiness, then that's a fantastic thing.

The last couple of days, I've been thinking quite a lot about Christmas. Unfortunately, as much as I choose to speak on the positives of happiness at all times, Christmas does have a sad element in which many people have no one, and today they will be isolated in solitude. I think in moments of great privilege and happiness, we should take a moment to reflect and consider those who may not have opportunities like this.

Happiness is what I believe is a collective approach to life, and one that is something we should contribute to the world as a whole. Christmas is an opportunity to explore, connect, or reconnect with significant people in your life that truly contribute to the person you are, or wish to become.

Thanks,

Dean