Count your blessing: I'm thankful to the children

Happy holidays!!!

I'm thankful to the children for giving me good news to start the holiday:

• Aqmal (as always) comes out as the best student among all third graders in his school.
• Ninta passes the written test and is now preparing for an interview in order to win a full scholarship offered by one of the most prestigious and expensive Senior High Schools in Jakarta. She expresses her gratitude by performing a prayer, then bowing down at my feet. I whisper at her ear: "Ahli surga (=the heir of heaven)".

We're not planning to go anywhere.

Ninta has just bought three novels: Twilight, Eragon and Eldest. She is all over the idea of making a restful and unruffled holiday.

Aqmal has been asking to have a new collection of computer games and films. This holiday is the perfect time to fulfil it.

I have new year resolution too. I'm going to have a more harmonious life in 2009 and have figured out four things to do:

1. Avoid consumptive life. No more overcrowded malls and fashion magazines. I know exactly what I need and where to buy it. I may need new shoes, handbags or clothes once in a while, but I'll stick to my schedule: one set of new cloth a year, a new pair of shoes and a new handbag every two or more years. No need to follow latest fashion. My choice is always simple and classic.
2. Avoid complications. It's nothing wrong if I decide to avoid complicated people too. They are the kind of people who get upset easily or are overloaded with problems (chores or debts). As a result, they will create awkward relationships. I would only pray for their happiness from now on.
3. Start thinking about a project that I can take on in order to help neighboors cope with the economic crisis.
4. Have a wider circle of friends who also have simple but meaningful lives.

Wishing you all the joy of the holiday season!

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