Last week I heard country star, Jake Owen sing his current hit What We Ain't Got during a concert in Phoenix. It's not a holiday ballad but the core message of the song certainly applies during this season of list-making and gift-giving.
We struggle to find the right gadget or gear for those on our list. And often spend a fortune mailing last minute gifts to faraway friends and relatives.
But what is it that they (and we) really want?
We ain't happy where we are,
There's greener grass in the neighbors yard.
A bigger house and a faster car.
Ask the elderly, the cancer patient or the returning vet what's on his or her wish list and most likely it won't be more stuff. Perhaps their list includes good health, a roll back of the clock, and extra time with loved ones.
Our favorite doors are always locked.
On a higher hill with a taller top.
It's hard to say why it's such a struggle for most of us to askew the stuff and ask for what we might really want. If I knew....well, that's a discussion for a different time!
But this year, right now, my holiday wish for all is for more sparkling laughter and meaningful experiences.
More fresh air, art, music and poetry. More time listening to snow fall (I know), children giggling, waves lapping on the beach and wind in the trees. More time sharing stories with those we love.
And more time appreciating what we've got.
(Photo: Courtesy CBS Radio - KMLE - Jake Owen responds to a little girls request to dance wiht him onstage.)