Holidays Past
Growing up, I remember the excitement and anticipation of Christmas, and the feeling of warmth that filled my body and soul. My fondest memories were living in California, and our drives through the extremely decorated neighborhoods. They were “jaw dropping!” I mean, they had santa sleighs and reindeer on the roofs, Christmas stars that lit up the street, mechanical toys, and angels singing. It was truly amazing, and it seemed like everyone participated. In those days (yes it has been quite a few years, actually decades, yikes!), the towns and even the stores made great effort to shine with decorations. I guess what I am trying to say is, the decorations provided much enjoyment, and Christmas spirit. To me, it’s sad that things have changed due to expense, or the fear of offending someone’s beliefs.
Even though lights and decorations are a form of commercialism, they lift my spirit. I think decorations, lights, and music all play an important role in the Holidays.
I even remember carolers roaming the streets singing! Nowadays, it is either not safe, unacceptable, or an intrusion of some kind. Isn’t that sad? Personally, I would happily welcome an “intrusion” like that, but I’m happy that some of those things can still be found today, where communities provide “tree lighting ceremonies” and “Christmas festivities.”
Today’s Christmas
Christmas is so focused on shopping and getting the “best deal” that “Black Friday” has become a violent competition, so contrary to the meaning of Christmas. Something is very wrong, and it will probably get worse before it gets better. I’m all for getting a bargain, but not at the expense of someone’s safety.
It’s funny that it is NOT the presents that I remember. I remember laughter, the beckoning aromas from the kitchen, baking delectable goodies, singing Christmas songs, hot cocoa, and spending Christmas Day in our jammies. We played jokes on unsuspecting relatives…wrapping large boxes, weighted with a rock, among other fun gags. I remember decorating our tree, and my dad, meticulously hanging the tinsel, one strand at a time! The results were amazing! I miss my dad, but he is with us always. Maybe it just seemed simpler because I was a child, and didn’t have all the responsibility that fall on the adults. Maybe my parents were stressed, but I don’t remember it. I know it can be challenging to “stop all rushing around, and seize the moment,” but those moments, are the ones that count.
All I know is that memories are made of those special moments, with special people, and that is what will remain with you long after Christmas has passed. If you need a great Christmas song of the past to get you in the spirit, I have just the thing – “White Christmas” by The Drifters. Enjoy, and please have a wonderful holiday. May your New Year be a thousand times better than you imagine 
