Christmas

I remember, long ago, having Christmas. The cold mountain wind whipping around our heads, as we ducked into my grandparent's house on Christmas Eve. You could smell the wood burning from the fireplace, always blazing; keeping the place a balmy 97 degrees. I remember those orange slices of chewy candy. The large, colored bulbs decorating the bushes outside. The smell of turkey cooking for the next day. The Christmas music playing on the old stereo in the corner. We all crowded into the living room as the few presents were given out. My sister and I always waiting for my uncle to give the latest report on where Santa was. We knew we had to hurry home from grandma's that night. The next morning we woke up to find the tree glowing with all sorts of fantasies underneath. My parents worked hard to make Christmas special for us. One year I asked for a ten-speed bike. After all the presents were opened, and the Christmas aftermath of boxes and paper were strewn throughout the living room, all was right in the universe. Although I didn't get what I asked for, I was very happy. I remember Dad asking me to get a bag out of the garage for the mounds of paper that littered the living room. So, with my PJ's and housecoat, I proceeded to the cold garage. To my utter surprise, there was a beautiful ten-speed bike with a bow in the corner. I was so happy and surprised, I couldn't control my tears. I recall riding that bike in the bitter cold that morning; happily freezing. I miss those days of Christmas bliss. It was more of a "feeling" than anything. The gifts were nice, but the entire atmosphere of Christmas was something that I remember most. This year, I have received a gift that makes that ten-speed bike pale in comparison. My three-year-old daughter held me last night, and whispered," I love you Daddy." I feel like the luckiest man alive. I got my family back for Christmas this year. Not since I literally cried with joy over a shiny, new bike, have I had such a wonderful gift. I am so thankful and blessed this year. I hope everyone has a touch of joy this holiday season, and stops for a moment during this hectic time of year to realize their own blessings. Merry Christmas!

Matthew 4:16