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December 24, 2005
Merry Christmas
Tonight is Christmas Eve and I have just returned home from the farm where my family has our traditional Christmas Eve dinner. When I say traditional I mean the Christmas caroling and enormous amounts of food. I mean everyone gathers together and exchanges gifts and it really is a large affair. There is usually a badly acted out rendition of the Twelve Days of Christmas and the kids pass out the presents we play Dirty Santa with. I had never thought that it was some kind of anachronism for how things “use to be”. We have always all come together and we have always been fortunate enough to be able to share our celebration with others who might not have family around anymore or may not be able to get to their family for Christmas. It is simply how it has always been. Growing up it was so corny in my self-centered world and most of my friends didn’t do it this way. I didn’t understand why these other people were there and not with their own family. Tonight I appreciate it all and was able to share it with my friend Doug whose mom won’t be in town until Monday.
I left the farm tonight with a two-pound bucket of mixed nuts and a reinforced appreciation for family. And most of all I never thought how fortunate I have been to not have to question the celebration as I have been blessed with a great family - the greatest gift imaginable.
For all my kids past and present I hope these holidays are a blessing for you and your family. Take a little time to reflect a little deeper than the presents you are opening and focus on the gifts that have been bestowed upon you by the Maker and know that you and your family are in my prayers.
Merry Christmas!
Posted by hlperson at December 24, 2005 10:19 PM
Comments
Thanks Lee! I was honored by you and your family to join in the feast, fun, and warmth of a Christmas Eve dinner that I will never forget. You have made me feel truly welcome in every sense of the word. Your family, students, and I are lucky to know you!
May God Bless!
Doug
Posted by: Doug at December 25, 2005 12:26 PM
Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to you and your family! Your friends and students are lucky to have a great mentor and friend. God bless and continued happiness!
Posted by: Smiley at December 27, 2005 05:49 PM