In the Old English “merry” meant less about merriment and more about courage and strength: “be of good courage.” As a young father trying to assemble those toys on Christmas Eve with confounding directions, being upbeat had to give way to determination and courage. In the depths of joy is much bedrock. There to be found, especially for those who may find sadnesses in all the hype, is a most beautiful “Yes.” Yes, it is good that we can share. Yes, it is good that I am here in the midst of a more deeply satisfying joy that confirms my presence in the universe. A Merry “Yes” to all.

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