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This collection of short stories celebrates the diversity of New Mexico's people, cultures and landscapes. Christmas isn't just a marketplace holiday, nor is it a narrow observance of tradition, or the remembrance of an event dimmed by the distance of a couple thousand years. This is the one time of the year when we can set free the light that shines within each and every one of us. For a few days, or weeks, we allow ourselves the opportunity to glow with peace and good will. The light within vanquishes the fear and anger for just a moment in time, but within that moment is the hope of all humanity. For each of these stories, this fifth season of the year is a special time, with spirituality that transcends the church pew. This is the season we experience with the senses. After all, New Mexico is a place where "red and green" don't refer to decorations, but rather the dinner table choice of red or green chile. During this most intense time of the year, we experience with more than the physical senses. We have the opportunity to experience our sense of belonging, sense of place, sense of hope, sense of peace, and most definitely, our sense of humor.Our journey through life is a matter of discovery, sharing, caring for one another, and being the gift, more than receiving the gift. Christmas may be the moment in time when we shine, but each of us is a gift every day of our lives, and so is everyone we chance to meet on this journey for which there is no road map. But we do have each other, friend or stranger, to light the way. Hope you are enchanted by the light, and that you are the light for others during this season and every tomorrow. Hopefully, you will enjoy these stories and make friends with each of these characters. Some flawed, others scarred, but all are delightfully human.