Bobbie Proskine, Author Children's Book Author

I was just thumbing through the book “A Collection of Encouragements” by Helen Steiner Rice.  I started reading a poem and the last sentence of the poem really resonated with me, especially this time of year when everybody is; just admit it, it is true, in their own little world trying to get through the stresses of Christmas.  So this particular part of the poem reads “So pass no stranger with an unseeing eye, for God may be sending a new friend by.”  Powerful words, so I started thinking about how many people have their faces in a cell phone instead of looking around and living in the moment.  This got me to thinking about when I was standing in line at T.J. Maxx the other day.  This lady in front of me was so engrossed in texting that she was totally oblivious to anything that was going on around her and to the mere fact that the next cashier was available.  Anyone that has been to T.J. Maxx knows that this fake lady makes an announcement every time a new cashier is open.  Like this, “Cashier 3, now Open.”  So there I stood behind this lady as she continued to text and I am thinking, “Do I interrupt her and tell her that the cashier is open?” Yes, as you probably guessed, I chickened out in fear that she would bite my head off because, as you know, temperaments can get high during the Holiday Season.  So, I picked the high road and waited a little longer.  She finally came out of her texting coma and realized that she could proceed to the cash register.  As we get closer to Christmas and we are running out of time with what still needs to be done, you will begin to see more and more people in their “all about me world”, quite possibly missing out on one more opportunity to get to know someone that could be of value in their lives, whether as a new friend, a new boss, or even a new neighbor, etc.  You never know how something you say or do can impact someone else’s life.  I am a full believer that God puts people in our life path for a reason and if we are in a world where we are not living in the moment, I believe we are missing out on so many opportunities.  I challenge you this Christmas season, and beyond, to put down those cell phones and live in the moment where you can quite possibly meet that next best friend, someone who can give you a new lead on a job, who is meant to be in your life, or says that one thing you need to hear at that very instant.  My wish for you this Holiday Season is to spend quality time with your family and friends and make every moment count.  Happy Holidays and Happy New Year. I hope that 2012 brings to you everything you hope for.