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# On this Christmas Eve in Paris
- URL: https://katecarruthers.com/on-this-christmas-eve-in-paris/
- Published: 2010-12-24T11:00:23.000Z
- Updated: 2026-04-01T03:51:54.000Z
- Author: Kate Carruthers
- Tags: ideas, connection, future, inspiration, life, society, #Migrated-1775015344493, #wp, #wp-post, #Import 2026-04-01 14:49

I contemplate the year past and the year to come and think on how I want my life to be.

What do I want my life to stand for?

Not clamour for power or wealth; not hunger for praise or admiration; not frenzied desire for new and thrilling experiences.

What then is it? I've been sitting here in the somewhat chilly lobby of my hotel pondering for a while now.

I want, no aspire, to be civil and just in my words, meanings and acts. I want to meet my fellow human beings with peace in my heart and anger towards none. I want to be real, open, and free of fear.

[![](http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5164/5308843227_ba8b6440fb.jpg "Reims Chagalle window")](https://katecarruthers6748.live-website.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/reims-chagalle.jpg?ref=katecarruthers.com)

I suppose that this seems to be all about me. But it seems to me that I am the only thing that I have the power to change.

Interesting to realise how little power I have to change other things and how much power I have to change myself.

Strange ponderings on Christmas Eve.

Wishing one and all a merry Christmas! Peace on earth and goodwill to all.