It's not about the gifts under the tree, it's about the people who placed them there.
When I was a child, Christmas was about unwrapping presents at both my Grandmother's (Grandfathers too) house. It was about the little "snowman" place cards my grandmother made from apples, raisins and marshmallows. The scent of pine filled my nostrils as I walked into her house. Laughter and chatter filled the rooms. Cousins ran to hug each other. Favorite aunts and uncles embraced me. Her house was always warm, and the windows steamy. Various smells filled the kitchen and drifted through the house.
As I got older, got married and had children of my own, I remember the stress of trying to visit everyone on Christmas day. I also remember, at times feeling overwhelmed.
One of the things Grandma used to tell me was that one day your children will be grown. This time will only be a memory. At the time when I was tired from lack of sleep, changing diapers, dragging a diaper bag everywhere I went. I did not pay much attention to her comment. Today, my children are grown. I have grandchildren. My children live in different states, and have busy successful lives. I miss them. I miss those busy times. I miss the food both my grandmothers slaved over for weeks, preparing for Christmas. Most of all, I miss the laughter, and just being with each other. My family is spread out over the country. I am thankful for text messaging, FaceTime and email. And cell phones which capture the moment and forward a picture to me thousands of miles away.
Cherish the moment. I am thankful I have my husband. We spend quiet holidays together. Additionally, I cherish the memories of the days when I was rushed and tired, and watching my children tear through the wrappings I had spent so much time to make "perfect".
I feel like I have arrived. I finally realize what is truly important. Time with each other. Not the amount of gifts under the tree, or even the special food on the table. Although there's nothing like Christmas cookies and candy.
Cherish the moment and season of life you are in.
Merry Christmas to each of you. I am sending you hugs from me to you.
I can totally relate to your words...they resonate with me...thank you for reminding me of how precious time is when we quietly spend it with each other. Merry Christmas and a very peaceful New Year. Lovely work!!!
Bishnupriya Ghosh, Professor at University of Santa Barbara contacted me asking to use my painting of Mother Teresa in her upcoming book, "Global Icons" which was published by Duke University Press Books. You may see Judy Jones's painting of Mother T
When I was a child, Christmas was about unwrapping presents at both my Grandmother's (Grandfathers too) house. It was about the little "snowman" place cards my grandmother made from apples, raisins and marshmallows. The scent of pine filled my nostrils as I walked into her house. Laughter and chatter filled the rooms. Cousins ran to hug each other. Favorite aunts and uncles embraced me. Her house was always warm, and the windows steamy. Various smells filled the kitchen and drifted through the house.
