I just came back from a walk where I was thinking of things I remember about Christmas. I realize some of my best memories are based on things/events one might not consider positive.

I remember one Christmas or was it two? when my brothers and I were confined to bed with one of those childhood illnesses that used to be common. I think it was red measles. We had to stay in bed, avoid bright lights and eat light meals. But my mother decided not to let it ruin the holidays. She set up three cots for us in the living room where we were warm and could see the tree. And we opened our gifts in bed. I’m not sure how the boys felt about it but being in bed surrounded by my new doll and books didn’t seem like a hardship. In fact, I remember thinking it was rather special.

I’m guessing the boys would have rather been outside playing in the snow.  Here we are one snowy winter.

Another Christmas which could have ended in sadness was the year there were no Christmas trees available. I can’t say why. My mother again came to the rescue. She fashioned a tree from clothes hangers and green tissue paper and hung lights on it. It wasn’t a real tree but it was pretty. And not at all a Charlie Brown tree.

Then there was the Christmas I got a doll my mother made. It had moveable limbs and a face that looked almost real. It was big enough to wear REAL baby clothes. I wish I still had it but we were taught to share our toys with the less fortunate so I hope some underprivileged little girl somewhere got as much enjoyment from it as I did.

I guess it all boils down to the things that make Christmas special are not the big price items. It’s making the best of what we have, sharing simple things, enjoying the moment.

May everyone enjoy the best Christmas present ever–Jesus–Deity wrapped in human flesh. A gift beyond compare.