In this mid-holiday period, as the city settles down to serious movie-watching, it's important to remember to write a few thank you notes. For things, let's say, you received intentionally and gratefully. I try to do this, and this year I even have both cards AND stamps, so things are looking up.

And I got a tremendous boost in the thank-you-note department during a recent meeting when a copy of such a note was handed around. It was from a member of the group who had retired from active service (this was a meeting of a nonprofit board). And it said:

"Dear Board of Directors,

What a pleasant surprise I had upon opening my mail this morning. I certainly appreciate not only the wonderful plague you sent me but the words inscribed on it."

Now, this really ties everything together for 2003: SARS, volunteerism, A Christmas Carol (there's something of the Ghost of Christmas Future in that plague arriving), apocalyptic visions, and surprising things arriving in the mail. And what on earth were the words inscribed on it? "Abandon Hope"? or (particularly if you've seen The House of Sand and Fog this season) "Don't Forget To Open Your Mail"?

Still and all, it was a thank you note, and there's a reason to be grateful for almost everything. Even plagues, I guess.

Thanks to all.