Back by popular demand, these words ring true throughout the year. Reprinted from First Liberty Bank Newsletter December 2015.

Christmas can be an exciting and joyful time of year for many people. It can also be a difficult one. But it’s not too late to get into the holiday spirit.

If you are having a hard time relinquishing your inner Scrooge this year, here are a few ideas that might help you find your Christmas Spirit:

• Get together with family or friends and watch a classic Christmas movie. My favorite is “It’s a Wonderful Life”, an oldie but a goody. I love this movie because of its great message, one that I try to impart to my kids throughout the year – Quit worrying about the things you don’t have and be thankful for the things you do have.
• Bake a batch of Christmas cookies. I love sugar cookies decorated with frosting and holiday sprinkles. They smell wonderful while baking and are sure to help out the Christmas fun. And while you are baking, play some Christmas music in the background.
• Be generous and give. The true spirit of Christmas is the spirit of giving. Oklahoma has been greatly impacted by the downturn in oil prices and this will certainly effect charitable giving in our area. Let’s remember those less fortunate who are struggling and dig a little deeper this year for our local charities.
• You can also show your generosity of spirit which has nothing to do with your pocketbook:
  • Give compassion today to someone who is hurting.
  • Give the gift of time to someone who needs companionship.
  • Give encouragement to someone who is frustrated or discouraged.
  • Give a place at your table and share a meal.

And smile - at everyone. Not only will you feel happy, it actually decreases stress. And smiling is contagious. Something as simple as smiling at a stranger could brighten an otherwise difficult day.

Wishing you a Merry Christmas and Happiness throughout the New Year.

As always, please do not hesitate to contact me at (405)608-1903 or jroot@myfirstliberty.com if there is every anything I can do for you.

Best regards,

Joey P. Root

President & CEO