As a grown woman Christmas has been focused around my children since the day they were conceived. Watching their eyes light up has been the sheer joy of the season, on top of the celebration of Christ’s birth. Christmas has been difficult since the passing of our Grandmother eight years ago this year on Christmas Day, but remembering the times with her seems to bring joy to the day. As a child Christmas was big in our family-no matter the argument that may be going on we all seemed to forget our troubles and angers if only for that day, coming together as a family to celebrate.
I remember visiting my uncle’s home as a child on Christmas night every year in Chandler, Texas. With Texas being so warm all of us kids were outside with jars catching the fireflies and trying to make it in time to watch Uncle James’ large satellite turn whenever he changed the channel. Now satellite’s sit on the side of the house and are not even remarkable, but that one was so large it seemed to be as big as their house. Aunt Hazel made her strawberry shaped and flavored candies every year-my favorite treat of the season. She even continued to mail those wonderful delights to me after I was grown and lived in another state, that is until she fell ill and just could not do it anymore. It was the joy of being with the family and following the traditions that we had for years that mean so much to me now. The large Christmas tree in the corner decked to the max with what I believed to be the most beautiful ornaments at the time. I often wonder now if it was the beauty of the tree or the beauty of family together that made the difference. So as Christmas is upon us I find myself remembering the times of my childhood, before the loss of my grandmother, uncle, aunt, and cousin, in an effort to try to deliver traditions to my children. I can only hope that the efforts we put forth now will become cherished memories for them tomorrow as my memories have for me. I believe it is about remembering that the beauty of the season revolves around the birth of Christ and the family coming together to celebrate one more year together. The greatest gift ever given to our children is the benefit of the closeness between families, even if for only one day out of the year.