Happy Holidays!
Reflecting on the Season and My Dad
Every year, I have fun reading holiday books, looking for excerpts from writings that reflect my feelings about the season. This is an especially poignant year for me, given my father’s recent passing. His birthday was Christmas Day, and it will be the first time we haven’t spoken on this day in my lifetime. He always loved Christmastime, and it has worn off on me. In honor of my dad, I have always decorated my house with lights. It may be my imagination, but I feel that this season has been the best year yet for decorations as I drive around and appreciate the individual creativity of so many homeowners. People are in an especially festive mood this year, and I know that Dad is looking down and smiling at it all. Since 1944, “Ideals Christmas” has been a tradition in thousands of homes across the USA. The book features traditional poems that explore the meaning of the holiday and evoke special memories of time spent with family and friends. I came across the following poem, which resonated with me (Thanks Mable!): The Message of Christmas Bells By Mable Clare Thomas Once more the bells of Christmas Are ringing sweet and clear; Once more our hearts are lifted up And filled with hope and cheer, For friendship knows no barriers Of distance, time or space, And loving thoughts can wing their way To any clime or place. Each year the message of the bells, Over mountain, plain, or sea, Reminds us love is born anew, Steadfast, tender, strong, and true, Wherever we may be. I hope that you and your loved ones have a wonderful week of celebration and friendship this year. And may the New Year bring you many blessings and much happiness!Related articles
- Poetry: Christmas Bells (clarabelle.org)
- Christmastime? (josiahsglassheart.wordpress.com)
- Merry Holiday Reading (potterybarnkids.com)
- Reflection: Christmas Stories (whiterakogis.wordpress.com)