One of differences is that we are more technologically advanced, in some geographic and geopolitical areas. In these regions of technological advancement, we actually may be more socially isolated from a family perspective, and more separated from basic natural gifts of clean air and pure water.

I hope and pray that we may all examine manifold gifts that each and every one of us has. May we also reflect upon phrases we utter in speech, song, and written form, during this short holiday period. These few remaining days of year 2003 are rapidly coming to an end. May this time give you peace and good will, my friend.

2. Continue to focus on feelings within your present experience. Rather than compare your experience with a previous one, bask in moment. Focus on its uniqueness.

3. Return a silent feeling of gratitude for each experience, knowing that all events are divine gifts given to help us learn and grow in faith.

4. Record your experience by writing it in a journal, recording it on tape, or taking photographs if possible. Your recorded perspectives will allow sensations of your experience to remain fresh in your memory.

5. Share your experience. Thoughts that continue to receive our attention will increase in our daily experience. Sharing our experiences divides joy with others. It is also a great way to keep a newfound level of awareness growing and thriving.

The snow angel indeed provided a unique Christmas gift for my friend, and also for me. It's a special gift that has kept giving year after year.

Every time I view angel's image, it reminds me to attend to present moment, and to view gift of life through a spiritual lens. Life's perfection is always there, in sunshine and storm, in bright and overcast light.

I will always recall that crisp December day when I met an unexpected friend in forest - an angel made of snow. Her reminder to see with spirit's eyes has been a life-empowering Christmas gift - kind of gift one might expect to receive from an angel.