Thoughts of Christmas From An Older Curmudgeon. Paul Pisano, Guest Contributor

A small present that might make you consider what’s important in life

It’s that time of year again. It tells us that another year has passed, and another record has been set as to the speed at which it occurred.

I guess that old Roman philosopher was correct when he said “Tempus fugit non comebackebus.” I imagine that says it all.

While the season to be jolly is here, we should all be thankful that we are still around to enjoy all that is great about the holidays.

The happiness and joy of the children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, the extra spring in the steps of us all, and above all, the conviviality that people show is a niceness that should be with us year-round.

So I wish everyone a Merry Christmas, a Happy Hanukkah, and just a plain old Happy Holiday.

While I can’t play Santa Claus to every one of you, I can give you a small present that might make you consider what’s important in life. So with apologies to my favorite curmudgeon, Andy Rooney, I submit for your enjoyment a few of his Life’s Lessons. As he said, “If you don’t like these lessons, well that’s not my problem.”

· Birthdays aren’t for celebration – they’re a reminder of what’s wrong with us.

· Everyone take note: Juices are the new bottled water.

· It’s easy to criticize. It takes brains to respond.

· Tech talk is confusing. And so is the internet.

· Profanities are profane for a reason. There’s no place for them in a civilized society. Let’s try a touch of decorum.

· The National Sleep Foundation exists. Really?

· Enjoy each day. While multitasking. Otherwise, you’re not truly efficient.

· If you haven’t heard of Ariana Grande, Austin Mahone, or The Wanted don’t feel bad. It just means you’re getting older.

· Planning to take time off is not relaxing.

· Gift-giving is a tricky business. Don’t try to be funny or clever.

· A messy desk is filled with life’s treasures. Just make sure to have someone help you get rid of it.

· Complain all you want; just remember to be grateful for everything you have.

· I’ve had Christmas presents I liked more than others, but I’ve never had a Christmas present I didn’t like.

So, my fellow curmudgeons, for all of our complaints, we should strive to become mellow when it comes to the Christmas season because It affects all of us.

Let us all be happy and joyful this holiday season. Let us be thankful for all that we have, especially the pleasures we enjoyed this past year, and let us be hopeful for the future in all that is precious to us.

HAVE A WONDERFUL HOLIDAY

Paul J. Pisano is a lawyer and writer