"Comparison is the death of joy."-Mark Twain

This year we were drawn to a particular Christmas Tree lot, a lot acclaimed for bargain prices on Noble Firs. Quickly we realized how the lot was able to offer their discounts. Each tree was still wound up in mesh or wire or string or whatever it is Christmas Tree farms use to transform evergreens into spindly green mummies for easier transport. We had not planned for this. How could we carefully inspect each tree for gaps, hydration, and symmetry? It would be impossible to choose the "perfect" specimen without unraveling each cocoon. And so we left. We knew of another tree lot nearby. No packaged trees at this lot and a generous 4 foot radius around each, enabling one to scientifically make their Christmas tree choice. Still we were disappointed. It was late on the first Saturday in December, likely a popular day for Christmas Tree purchasing, and the pickings were slim. We settled for a tree with a large gap near the top, hoping we could conceal the imperfection with our larger ornaments.

The next morning I draped the tree in twinkle lights. Every day since I can't help but smile when the lights turn on and she stands alone in her glittering gown.

And so I’ve been thinking this week about comparing things and how doing so hinders our ability to appreciate and cherish....and wrestling to determine how much self-interest is healthy. I think sometimes our obsession with comparison leads us to wanting the best all to ourselves. In our humanity we find pleasure in being envied by others. We want the best friends, the best house, the best hair, the best clothing, the best Facebook profile pictures, the best job, vegetable garden, and ultimately, the best life. Is there anything wrong with wanting those things? I'm sure it's debatable. Maybe the real danger is when you want those things for yourself but not others. Philippians 2:3-4 comes to mind: "Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit, but in humility consider others better than yourselves. Each of you should look not only to your own interests, but also to the interests of others." Okay, so we don't have to forfeit our desires and interests completely. Perhaps with a little less time spent comparing ourselves to others or focusing on the gaps in our trees, we can let go of being number one and consider the interests of others instead. This has to be a happier lifestyle.