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If the content of this
column appears somewhat familiar to you, it’s because I had
intended to reprise last year’s December QTR, and for the most
part that’s what I’ve done. I figure why mess with what works.
Since the message of Christmas is ageless, and since my general
interpretation of that message hasn’t changed, I decided I
couldn’t do any better with a new presentation. I hope you will
accept this reiteration. Of course, for those of you who didn’t
read last year’s version, it’s all new anyway! For those of you
who did, see if you can pick out the new parts.
Spirit Matters
So, how do you write about the spirit of Christmas in a
commercial newsletter? Isn’t it a common complaint these days
that Christmas has become too commercialized? And after all,
isn’t the intention of this column to create a bond, and promote
ourselves to our clients and prospective customers? Well, yes of
course. The question remains, can this be done in keeping with
the spirit of the season, which many of us understand to be
about giving, unconditional love, and peace on earth?
Giving and love. Enough said. Seems to be a good reason to
celebrate with family and friends. And in keeping with the
spirit of God’s promise, what about sharing the giving and love
with strangers, especially those less fortunate than ourselves,
who find themselves alone, or without the means to participate
in the festivities many of us associate with the celebration of
Christmas.
As for peace on Earth, it seems to be an impossibility these
days, but if Christmas gives us a chance to reflect on what that
means, we can focus our thoughts and our prayers to that end.
Each of us can take small steps to encourage changes toward
peace in our own families, among our business associates, our
communities, and so forth. I think the ripple effect of this
kind of energy can only have a positive impact on the world at
large. What about you?
Presents or Presence?
Has Christmas become too commercial? What do you think?
Retailers, like the rest of us, realize that in the spirit of
giving people will be buying. This is what inspires the big
advertising campaigns to get their share of the pie. Have we let
it influence us too much? Perhaps, but it is our choice whether
we will be drawn in or not. I believe Christmas begins and ends
in the heart. For me it’s a far better place to make choices
from than from hype.
We at Corbins hope you will be true to your own heart. When you
choose to do business with us we wish it is because you feel it
is the right thing for you to do. It is always our aim to create
a strong relationship with our clientele. We know the only way
to do this is to provide unsurpassed service. Just as in the
holistic perception of life, where spirit is the glue that holds
body and mind together, we believe in a holistic concept of
business. To our way of thinking, service and attitude bind us
to our customers, and in order to serve you, we need to know
what you want from us.
Wax and Wane
Whew! Have you ever felt totally
exhausted after getting all philosophical? Maybe it’s only me. I
think it might be time for me to stop before I pass out at the
computer or something. That would give an entirely new meaning
to crashing. Besides, if Blair was to find me sound asleep at
the computer he’d probably assume I was sluffing off. Just
between you and me, we know how hard I’ve been working.
So, is this really work? Sometimes it’s hard to believe this is
part of my job. It’s great to enjoy what you do for a living.
Apparently it’s all connected to finding your purpose in life,
otherwise known as your dharma. (Yup, just like the TV series.)
Heart to Heart
I have determined that writing definitely plays a role in my
dharma. Exactly how it will work out in the big scheme of things
isn’t exactly clear to me yet, but I’m learning to go with the
flow. At the very least it makes it interesting, just stepping
back and observing how everything unfolds.
I must admit I’m not always capable of stepping into the seer’s
shoes, but I have allowed myself on occasion to witness how it
works. Were it that I could do it always! I believe our job is
to allow the universe to unfold as is intended. Act yes, but to
attract we must leave space for the magic to occur. Think about
it, how much choice do we really have anyway? Do we actually
think we are ultimately in control? There might just be a
message in that this busy pre-holiday season - for me, as well.
Actually, here is a perfect example of not being in control.
It’s very clear to me sometimes when I’m writing, that another
voice is speaking to me, and guiding my fingers across the keys.
(Yes, I know they have a name for that! Whatever!!) Often when
words come out in the form of advice, it seems to be meant
especially for me. Whether I acknowledge it or not, I do need to
be reminded to leave some space. Well, they say practise makes
perfect.
Give and Let Give
I’ve already asked you to let us know what we can do for you.
I’m repeating it because we really do mean it. Hearing from you
would give us incredible leverage. And it gives you the
opportunity to be a part of our business plan. It’s a win-win
situation. You get what you want, and we have the opportunity to
provide it.
Besides, I have one other request. In the spirit of giving,
please email us and let us know if you have read “Quoth the
Raven...”. In the subject line type ‘Column’, then simply type
‘read it once’ or ‘more than once’. If you have any other
comments, be true to your own heart, and feel free to give those
as well. I’m going out on a limb here, however we all know a
raven would feel comfortable there.
To all of our friends who recently observed Ramadan, assalamu
alaikum. Also, wishing everyone a very Merry Christmas, Happy
Hanukkah, and a Prosperous New Year. To you and yours may God
bless you all.
For your success,
Team Corbin
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