DEAR ABBY: I read the letter from the "Grinch" who didn't want her elderly neighbor intruding on her family Christmas morning.
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My husband was in the military during Christmas 1964. While he was overseas, my three small children and I lived in a neighborhood with a large number of retired people.
Early Christmas morning, an elderly woman from across the street arrived unexpectedly with gifts. She said she wanted to come while the kids were still opening their presents and the gift wrappings and ribbon were all over the floor. She had no family of her own and wished to be part of our family's celebration.
My children, grandchildren and I still celebrate together on Christmas mornings. My husband survived the war, but has since died. That dear elderly neighbor has long since passed on, but my children and I speak of her lovingly each Christmas morning as we open gifts among paper and ribbons scattered on the floor.
I hope "Grinch" will rethink her outlook. She should realize that sharing the joy of Christmas with others will teach her children a precious lesson for years to come. -- A FLORIDA GRANDMA
DEAR GRANDMA: You're a woman with a heart of gold. As "Grinch's" letter shows, some people are more territorial about their families and holidays than you are. I agree that sharing the holidays would be a valuable lesson for the children. A joy shared is twice a joy.