Home For The Holidays
It Is A Wonderful Life
The holidays are a time of cheer,
happiness and good will to all men. The holidays open a portal in our spirits
with special Christmas’ filled with memories, smiles and family customs. Over
the years the holidays have become more commercialized. In fact, we’ve barely
had a chance to finish our favorite Thanksgiving dessert before we’re hit with
ads for Black Friday.
One of our most treasured holiday
movies is It’s a Wonderful Life. At one time or another, we’ve all been
George Bailey. Many face suicidal thoughts like George Bailey. In the film
George had Clarence the angel to help him see what life would have been like
without him and it woke him up to the real blessings and the meaning of
Christmas.
All of us have angels to help us get
through down times during the holidays. For me, it begins with childhood
memories of Christmas morning with my parents and brother, opening presents
with squeals of delight, kisses and hugs. Christmas breakfast was always
special. My mother would switch it up every year and just when we thought she
couldn’t top herself, she did. The real fun began when smiling aunts, uncles
and cousins arrived bearing gifts. Truth be told the real gifts weren’t gift
wrapped The most memorable and long-lasting gifts was their laughter, stories,
music and singing. Dancing was a part of the celebration. As a little girl
dancing with my father to Nat King Cole’s Christmas song was priceless. When
the rest of the family joined in, it was magical. Though I loved dancing with
my father, I loved when he and mom danced cheek to cheek, you could feel the
love and it still is the gift that keeps on giving my heart and soul.
Once I had a family with a husband
and son, we created new memories together. From decorating the tree to hiding
the presents. Christmas morning was just the three of us once my son was born to
heaven called my beloved husband home. Our home was warm, cozy and welcoming
for the many friends and family who would come over. We laughed, swapped
stories, opened presents, indulged in sweet treats and giggled softly when the
children thought we didn’t see them swipe yet another candy cane from the tree.
They are memories I wouldn’t give up for all the tea in China.
Now, I am experiencing Christmas
time in a new place with my son, daughter-in-law and the many friends I’ve made
in the community and church. While I will always miss Christmas’ past, I feel
that I am honoring my past by looking forward and never forgetting those who
meant the most to me then and now. The true joy of the holidays is, home is
where your heart is. Although, I’m no longer a little girl up north or a wife
with a family on Long Island, I am including them in my celebration of another
year of ups, down, tears, laughter and joy.
Deep down every time I hear a bell
during Christmas, I know it isn’t Clarence the angel, but rather all the angels
that have touched my life. Keep that in mind when the hustle and bustle of the
holidays begin to wear on you. I guarantee it will put a smile on your face and
pep in your step.
Have a very Merry Christmas. It
truly is a wonderful life.
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