December 15, 2018

​Christmas Memories
 
When I was a child, Mother would make snow for the Christmas tree by stirring Ivory soap flakes with water in a big metal dishpan and beat them with a rotary beater. Then the “snowflakes” would be ladled on to the tree limbs with a big spoon. We had strings of tiny pointy lights in many colors. Some years, we even had bubble lights; they were shaped like candles but had liquid inside them that would bubble when heated.
 
One of my favorite childhood memories was when sister Peggy and I received beautiful grown-up dolls for Christmas. Peggy’s had a hat with a big pink feather plume, and mine had a fur coat. Aunt Frances and Uncle Mutt had a car and would always drive from Bowie to Nocona for a Christmas afternoon visit. Sometimes they would come for lunch.
 
Of course, there are so many wonderful memories of my own children, and their children. Fred and I would buy special ornaments signifying the birth of each. Every year, it is fun and nostalgic to go through those ornaments, hang them on the tree, and remember.
 
Light
 
Whether an outdoor electrical display or a candle on an old-fashioned tree, lights have always promised the coming of Christmas. I’ve learned how important light is, like the light turned on outside a patient’s room in a hospital or nursing facility, bringing relief, comfort, assistance and aid for those in need. I turn on a light for help, and the nurses and aides bring their own light into my room and my life.
 
At FCC Denton, “Candlelight Carol” by John Rutter has long been a favorite during Advent.
 
“Let there be light,” God said.
Jesus said, “I am the Light of the World.”
 
Jesus was the Light of the World for an oppressed people looking for a Savior. The Star of Bethlehem announced the coming of that long-sought Savior.
 
In one story the shepherds have left their sheep; in another the Wise Men have completed their journey. Joseph stands in loving support as Mary prepares for the birth of a new light into the world.
 
I contain all these energies within my consciousness – the anticipation, the joy.
 
May the Advent season bring to all the Light of the World, the Light of Joy, and of Peace, and of Hope, and of Love.
 
Sidney Sue Graham (2017)