My earliest memory of Christmas was of wandering out of bed on route to the bathroom and glancing down the hallway to see my Mom at the kitchen table wrapping gifts. By her elbow was a box containing a Peanuts electric toothbrush. The next morning, I unwrapped a gift from the Tooth Fairy; it was the Peanuts Snoopy-Woodstock toothbrush. Busted.
Now convinced the Tooth Fairy was a fraud, I began to suspect Santa; I started to actively seek to discredit him and his merry band of conspirator elves. To his credit, Santa proved a far better magician than the Tooth Fairy. I never did burst his jolly ol’ bubble. Then I had kids.
Thankfully, Santa didn’t abandon me. Nor did the magic of Christmas, despite my adult knowledge of the true meaning of Christmas.
It’s not electric toothbrushes, or gaily wrapped gifts. It’s Peace, and Gratitude, appreciation of sacrifice for the security and betterment of others.
I don’t ascribe to a formal religion. I do believe in something greater than me. Than all of us.
However you celebrate, whatever your beliefs, may the magic of this day find you and fill your heart with joy, peace, and appreciation for all that you have, especially if what you have comes wrapped in an ugly sweater or old bathrobe, new blue jeans or shimmering princess dress.
Family and friends; the true meaning of Christmas.
Deborah.
Gratitude is the memory of the heart. ~Jean Baptiste Massieu
