When I drive, I listen to Christmas music. While few require explanation, my granddaughter Adeline had a question about one song she heard Mariah Carey singing.

“Lolli,” she asked me, “What does she want for Christmas?”

And I was left to explain what “All I Want for Christmas is You” means.

“What do you want for Christmas?”

It’s a question often heard this time of year. Hallmark even has a movie about a personal shopper whose job was to find the perfect gifts. (I’m pretty much an expert on Hallmark’s Christmas movies.)

As I mulled over what I want for Christmas, I thought of a story about publisher William Randolph Hearst.

He once conducted a worldwide search for a painting he wished to acquire.

It couldn’t be found. A year later, an employee announced he had located the desired artwork.

It had been in Hearst’s basement the entire time. No one had thought to read the ledger of what Hearst already owned.

In place of Christmas list, I’m writing a list of what I already have. My ledger will include the blessings of relationships, health, shelter, food, clothing, peace of mind and all the promises of God’s Word that I can find.

What’s on your list?

Ronny Michel may be reached at rmichel@rtconline.com.