December 2, 2013

Christmas is a Time for Memories

Memories. Traditions. Symbols.  It's the essence of what wafts from the cherished boxes  of decorations that are opened every year at this time. 

 

Memories of the hunt for the perfect tree...shaking one after another to find just the right one with branches that will be filled with cherished heirlooms.  Of carting it home and placing it in its stand, twirling it until its best side is front and center, hiding the bare spot against the forgiving wall. And then reveling in the familiar aroma that fills the room with delicious holiday scents. 

 

Traditions of opening the boxes so carefully packed the year before with the treasures kept for use once a year.  Discovering the ornaments so soon forgotten yet no less precious:  the trinket that adorned ones first borned cradle, the gift from a long-passed grandmother, so simple yet no less valued than the sparkling crystal jewel, the ornament given by a cherished childhood friend.  Each one holds special meaning and brings to life the spirit of the season.

 

The symbollic placing of the Angel atop the tree before any other adorments are added.  Of stringing bright colors of sparkling lights around the green boughs. And hanging endless bobbles on the branches.

 

It's what Christmas is about.

 

Days gone by mingle with the here and now in a delightful dance.  And when all is done, it's a delight for the senses.  Who can say why - it's just that way.   

 

As the calendar fades to December, it's time to turn and look back a bit on Christmases past. 

 

One of my favorite delights as a child, when everyone else was asleep, was to sit in the darkness with the tree aglow, squinting my eyes to make the lights glimmer and glow.  I'll admit I still do that and still find it magical. 

 

Memories of my dad  anchoring the tree to the wall with fishing line and the year he didn't and it toppled on top of  my sister.  Of family portraits taken in front of the tree, all smiles and happiness. Placing carefully wrapped gifts under the branches. Sneaking peaks of wrapped presents and wondering.  

Photographs of Christmas morning gift giving at the foot of the tree. 

 

Because Christmas is a time of of mystical joy and the tree a tribute to the wonder of the season, may you, too, discover that same magic this year.