There is Something About Christmas

There is something about Christmas. I know some people have difficulties with the upcoming holidays, and my heart truly goes out to those who struggle with a sense of loneliness, emptiness and even despair during these times. I wish I could share my feelings about Christmas with them.

From the time the Thanksgiving dishes are done, I have the anticipation of a child. It starts with the first set of Christmas lights that work. A house taken for granted eleven months out of the year is miraculously transformed each night into a glistening showcase of perfection. The dust doesn't show. The chipped paint on the door jamb isn't quite so noticeable. The slightly uneven mirror we hung last week doesn't look quite as crooked. The lighted wreath on the door, the welcoming candles in the windows mean different thing to different people, and to me they mean home.

After the tree goes up, those snowy, windy nights somehow don't seem as cold as the weatherman says. And somehow the scraggly side of the tree seems fuller. The one or two lights that went out don't really show. Even a Charlie Brown Christmas tree has a certain grace about it. A common stateliness in what it means. Whether a tree is upside down, purple, or traditional, it is a symbol of a belief in the "spirit" of Christmas. This "spirit" needs no religious definition, no moral standards, and no political acceptance. It is a symbol of the commonality of hope we all can share in the past, present and future. It's warm and glowing. It's family and loved ones.

In the midst of all of the Christmas preparation is a very private gift I give myself. I allow myself the indulgence of reliving special Christmas memories from my past. It's comforting to sit alone in silence and reflect on all I am blessed with, and how my life came to be. I gather up memories of my parents and the Christmases we shared, and clearly see the direction they traveled together, and why. Our happiness is as much the fruition of their love and sacrifice as I hope the kids to be of ours. I need them now as much as I ever did, and each Christmas I share my new memories with them as if they were right here with me. It is a bittersweet, treasured time.

Christmas Eve is always hectic, but after a while I selfishly retreat to my room to watch "It's A Wonderful Life". Every Christmas Eve. Every Year. Alone, but far from lonely. With all its corniness, it has yet to leave me dry-eyed. We need more "Clarences" for those who struggle, to show them the dignity and honor of doing what needs to be done, and the fact that every life does have a purpose. "It's A Wonderful Life" is simply one man's life touching everything he touches. It's a reminder to me that we don't live for the sake of living; we live for the sake of others.

Most people are different because of the Christmas season, nicer, more thoughtful, for reasons that even they themselves cannot explain. Mentioning some special consideration might be answered by, "Oh, what the hell. It's Christmas." Some may find that response harsh, or even contrary. I don't. To them I say..."Yes, it is."