A Child's View of Christmas

My eyes opened wide as I peeked out from under my quilt. My nose was cold and the bed was like a warm cocoon, but the excitement was bubbling up from deep inside of me. The sunlight was just starting to peek around the bedroom blinds. No matter how warm it was in bed I could not stay there one more moment. I folded back the covers so very slowly because it was frosty in the house. As my feet touched the icy floor I hurried to my robe and slippers nearby.

The cold seeped through me even with my robe wrapped around my heavy flannel nightgown. I tiptoed to the window to see if it had snowed during the night. I saw that Jack Frost had painted beautiful pictures all over the window panes, but one spot he had missed and I was able to see the blanket of new-fallen snow. A smile came to my lips and a soft little giggle escaped. This was definitely the most perfect of days!

Another giggle escaped my lips it was so very hard to be quiet when one was only 6 years old and filled with such excitement. Why the whole world should have been up with the breaking of dawn; but everyone in my home was fast asleep. That meant I had to be so very quiet as not to wake them. Slowly I crept to the front room. It was so very hard to walk slowly and carefully; the floors were wooden and they creaked.

It seemed like forever but I finally made it to the front room! There by the window was the most beautifully decorated Christmas tree. There were big bright light bulbs and colorful Christmas ornaments but it was the tinsel that set the sunlight dancing round the tree. I snuggled into a chair; took the afghan and wrapped it around myself for added warmth. I studied that tree so very carefully. While I was studying the tree I pondered on all the events of the month that had led up to that day in December. I could hardly stand all of the excitement in the air! Finally, I heard my Mother in the kitchen. Before she called me to breakfast I gave out a huge sigh; would this day never end? For a 6-old year December 24th was the longest day of the year!

(Those events took place on December 24, 1953, but the impressions of that particular day are forever stamped in my mind. Now the month of December rushes by ever so rapidly but in our youth time did stand still!)

Christmas Presents

Holiday Cheer – what does that phrase truly mean? Is this the time of year where manic behavior is the norm and those that do not join in the fray are accused of being a “Bah Humbug” Ebenezer Scrooge?

During the season the manic behavior of Christmas shopping is rife whenever you go into the malls. People are carrying multiple bags. It almost looks like refugees fleeing a war zone! The true reason for the season has been forgotten for many – Santa; Rudolph; and Frosty have become the most important part of Christmas time. When did the quiet spiritual contemplation of the Christ child become replaced with this?

Traditionally people did not shop till they dropped. Why, because they did not give gifts to the world! Today everyone has to have a present for the mailman, the doctor’s and dentist’s office, the office staff, your children’s teachers and bus drivers. The list just never ends. When did this start?

Remember when our Mother’s would bake special breads and cookies for their friends. They would wrap them up in pretty paper - the presents were a gift of time and love. Then they would set aside a time to go visit and enjoy each other’s company! Yes, things were kept simple in those days; most children were given a toy from Santa. That toy was very special to us and we played with that toy all year!

This year times are rough for so many of us let us go back to simple. Instead of an inexpensive present for your friends – give the gift of time and love. Spend some time with them and if they are too far away for a visit send them a personal letter or email acknowledging their special friendship. That present will be held dear because it was from your heart! Instead of spending useless hours wondering from one store to the next - spend precious moments creating a gift.

To simplify the season is to really appreciate the truth of love! Remember when Jesus was born it was not to a royal court but in a rude cave carved out of limestone. He was born to humble people; He did not need fanfare. He just came in love! So let us share that love this year. Instead of giving from our pocketbooks let us give from the heart!

Life's Journey

It is amazing how we experience life. As we travel the highways and byways of life we hopefully learn through each stage. When we are young we wish life would rush by. Do you remember when you were 10 ½? One has to smile at that; now we no longer say we are 35 ½ or 55 ½. No as we get older we wish time to slow down.

Through this journey called life each of us experience it so very differently. Many want more of life! How many times have you heard others say life is unfair? They always have that sour look on their face. My great grandmother had a saying to describe that type of person. She would say “They look like someone stole the bread from out of their mouth.” So apply put – these people feel like somehow they have missed out on life. They should have that BMW; a rich mate; a mansion; be able to travel the world; or have instant recognition. But unfortunately they do not realize that life does not work that way. Those people think life has to give us all we desire – in reality life does not give us all we desire but we are “given” exactly what we need.

Many would disagree with the last statement. To them life is there for the taking – but is it? They want all the “toys”! They are never satisfied. No matter how many possession they accumulate it is never enough. Instant gratification and yet within a few weeks the thing which they desired turns to ashes in their mouth. It no longer gives them the satisfaction they thought it would. How many people work hard to make their “life dream” come true and when it does they realize their life is not complete. Or a person who thinks a new spouse will solve all their problems, but alas it was not so. Possessions do not give us satisfaction nor do people solve our problems. It is what we add to life that does!

There are others that crave recognition and want to steal the limelight. These people are possessive and controlling. They are only concerned about themselves! These people know how to manipulate others by literally buying friendship to make their accomplishments seem greater! It is amazing how they cultivate others to follow in their wake. They always need an audience around them and feel threatened by others that see through their travesty. These people even go so far as to persuade their “in-crowd” to stay away from certain persons. The sad part of this scenario is the followers that need that type of recognition, when in reality it is all an illusion.

After repeated bumps and bruises many people have learned to stop and take from each of life’s lessons without complaining. They know that life is just that life – you cannot control it or turn back the clock. We must get through the rough spots as best we can and move on; knowing that tomorrow will bring a new dawn and a better day!


As one reflects on life there are no magic answers; no shortcuts just that life is life. The most important part of life is learning that we are here to reach out to others! There is an adage that alludes to the passing of life…there are no pockets in shrouds! Remember when all is said and done we are accountable for our actions - the good and the bad.

Faith's Secret

There are many how-to books being published under the guise of an easy way to fulfillment. Many of these publication state that it all starts within oneself. If we believe in ourselves and not think negative thoughts we can create a successful life by projecting positive thoughts into the universe. We are one with the universe and we create our life’s path. Now that sounds like the winning ticket but somehow it falls short. Why?

It falls short because it is based only on self-centeredness. It is easy to be self- centered. Just observe a 2-year old child going through the “no stage” of life. Sharing is not in that toddler’s universe.

Extrapolating this theory we are creating positive thought which equals positive thoughts being sent out into the universe therefore our thoughts create our universe. This equation leaves out the very important factor of creation – our Lord! Equating your positive thoughts to ruling your life is not what we are put on this earth to accomplish. Each of us inherently knows from the depths of our soul that we are here to serve the Lord and to help others. We are here to lead a selfless life – not to just think grandiose thoughts.

It is stated well in the book of Matthew Chapter 17 verse 20: So Jesus said to them, "Because of your unbelief; for assuredly, I say to you, if you have faith as a mustard seed, you will say to this mountain, 'Move from here to there,' and it will move; and nothing will be impossible for you.” (New King James Version)

This verse is an explanation of true faith. Many people misunderstand this verse thinking that they can never move mountains so why try. Do you know someone who can move mountains? Even our Lord Jesus when he walked this earth did not move mountains – but what then does this verse really mean?

First let us start with the analogy of the mustard seed. A mustard seed is an extremely tiny seed yet it grows into a very large tree. This mustard seed has been equated to persistent faith. The tiny seed continues to grown until an incredible result is issued. The description of the mustard seed is a true example of persistent faith. If a tiny seed can produce an incredibly large tree than what would a small amount of persistent faith produce? Faith has been described as belief, confidence, trust, acceptance, certainty, conviction and most of all truth - the truth of seeking the God of the Bible in the Gospels of our Lord Jesus Christ. That is the life blood of faith! We must remember we do not obtain results without first seeking faith in our Lord! This is not human faith but a complete trust that allows the Lord to work through us. When we totally surrender our problems in faith to the Lord – we see that it is not us that affect the results.

Many will not understand this explanation because they only have the faith of what they can see; hear; smell; touch or taste. If they cannot experience through the physical presence then it does not exist. These are the ones that feel they can will things into existence. Can we really think things into existence? Are we really the creator of our universe? Stop and seriously consider this logic – we did not think the Lord into being it is just the opposite. This faith of the mustard seed is not human faith but the faith that allows our Lord to work through us.

There is an old saying that states “When the cupboard is bare that is when true faith comes in”. The meaning behind that saying is simple if human faith cannot fill the cupboards then it is the faith we place in the Lord that allows Him to work in our lives. It is not us that bring the results but the faith in the Lord – we are not to worry what we can or cannot do but to put our faith in His hands for He can work miracles!

How many times have you heard another begin a sentence with “You will not believe...?” Yes we can and will believe because it is through our faithfulness that many things are accomplished and many more insurmountable problems brought down to size. How many times have you heard that hind sight is 20/20? Why do you think that is? Because when the storm has cleared then are we able to look back and see the results of the turmoil. When we are in the middle of the storm we usually think the worst but that is only if we look to ourselves to solve the problem. If we just take that moment to stop and apply our faith and pray to the Lord – ah then it does not seem as bleak. Instead the clouds begin to clear and one can see onto the horizon. Once we are in prayer there is a peace that descends upon us. A peace that will transcends all other feelings - nothing is impossible through prayer and trust in the Lord!

Many say yes I have heard that before but those are only hopes – how does one truly know? If you have belief it will change you – the way you think; the way you live; and the way you feel towards others. You will then begin to understand that your original faith that was only based on your physical experience was removed! Like the story of the man born blind at birth. Jesus came upon him and healed him. When it was found out that the man could see again no one could understand – a man born blind was blind for a lifetime. When asked how this came about the man replied …”One thing I know: that though I was blind, now I see” (John 9:25; New King James Version). So it is with us once we understand the true belief which was likened to the mustard seed; than we can begin to feel that belief germinating in our soul.

Love's Grief

Since the beginning of time when Adam was caretaker of the plants and animals in the Garden of Eden - he noticed that every one of these species had a mate but he was the only one of his kind! The Lord remedied the situation by giving Adam a female companion. She was called Eve and was to be his mate to support and assist Adam in their walk through life. The Lord declared that they should be fruitful and multiply. But as with all good things it never lasts. As everyone knows an apple came between them and so began “The Battle of the Sexes!”

And since the fall from the Garden of Eden; man and woman have competed against one another for power in the union of matrimony. Instead of reveling in one’s love for another; throughout the ages many couples have problems with jealousy, envy and lust. Then as now couples are jealous of others’ love lives; envious of how many possessions another couple has; or just plan lusting after another person’s mate. People waste more energy, emotions and time on those thoughts. For some couples it completely takes over their life. Somehow they forget about the love that brought them together in the first place. They forget about the beautiful wedding vows they spoke to one another during the marriage ceremony. It alienates them to such an extent that they do not even realize their actions. For example next time you are in a restaurant start to observe some of the couples’ reaction to one another. Instead of talking to one another and sharing experiences many of the couples just sit there and stare out into space. No longer enjoying each other’s company but just waiting to get over the ordeal of dinner; so they can go back home and retreat into their separate rooms and turn on the television.

It is very sad to see unhappy couples look for greener pastures. It has become common place these days for people to ignore their wedding vows and began to seek out extramarital affairs as if that is going to solve their problems. Instead it only adds to the misery of a person’s life. Remember there is nothing new under the sun. People want an easy fix. They are more than willing to seek out friends or if that fails to look in the Self-Help section of the bookstore to find the answer. There are so many books published each year on how to have a relationship; how to be desirable in the bedroom; or how to catch a man or woman. It has become a multi-million dollar industry!

There is an easier way, instead look to oneself; stop dreaming and wishing for Prince Charming or a Sex Goddess to be the one to sweep you off your feet and solve your every problem. Instead of daydreaming - assess your situation and use the energy to gain back the love you both discovered at the beginning of the relationship. Remember that kernel of love and desire? It may be a fading ember but with time you will be able to fan the flames of desire once more. It will take time as with everything – anything worthwhile takes time. Invest the time you usually spend in front of a television to nurture the love and respect with your other half. Remember the grass is not always greener in another’s backyard but it can be greener in yours!

Why Me?

How many times in a lifetime has that statement been uttered? Far too many to count, but time after time when things get rough those are the two words that come to mind. Look around other people seem to be on top of the world – life never seems to be a struggle. When others breeze through life we are always in the trenches. What is wrong with this picture? What do they do so right? Why are we missing out on life’s good times? Actually it is none of the above.

No one is exempt; everyone goes through life’s trials and tribulations. When we are in the trenches we are not aware of the other person’s trials. Take some time and actually sit down with another who seems to have it all together. It will open one’s eyes to learn about the struggles they have incurred in this lifetime. Each person who has walked or is now walking on this earth does not own a “Get Out of Jail Free” card. Every one of them has served time in the trenches!

Life is a learning experience – how many times has one heard that phrase? Youth is impatient with life. Whining about wanting everything right now! It is a truism that patience does solve many dilemmas. Yet how many times are those words ignored? Why? Youth does not understand – they have not spent enough time in the grist mills of life. Figuratively speaking those mills tend to grind one down and eventually one will start to heed the lessons and understand the “P” word (patience!).

How can the realization of being on the mountain top be appreciated without spending time in the valleys? The mountains seem so very high and unobtainable when looking up from the valley. But once atop a mountain noticing the valley is impossible. The surrounding mountains block out that view. And being creatures of habit; when one is on top there is a tendency to assume that we will always be up there. Being indestructible is such a great feeling! But alas when we least expect it we are swept off the mountain and tumble full speed ahead down into the valley. Being in the valley is a learning experience. And each learning experience is like a priceless deposit of gold into the bank account of life’s wisdom.

Still as one goes through life it seems that there are so few, fleeting moments of happiness and so many times of misery. Happiness is not something that comes and waits for a person. No, happiness is like a bright balloon that floats on the current of a gentle breeze. Learn to grab onto that balloon and enjoy it. One may grab onto many different balloons yet each one will give us joy; like a clean bill of health; or the wondrous feeling of looking upon a newborn baby’s smile; enjoying a sunrise or sunset as you look up at the heavens; or the age old uplifting feeling of being in love.

So next time before you utter “Why Me?” Instead say “Why Not?” You will learn that every cloud does have a silver lining!