When we first married, we were unsure what directions our tree should take, so we opted to play it safe and stick to ornaments which had a decidedly biblical theme (music, angels, nativity, etc). When I stretched plausibility with a cuckoo clock to commemorate our honeymoon in Germany ("to everything there is a time and a purpose under heaven..."), we had to acknowledge our tree theme had significantly broadened.
Each year, as we take out our carefully wrapped ornaments, we are reminded of moments in time,special trips,pets, friends, and loved ones long passed. I smile through tears as I hang the ornaments Dad patiently helped his "three girls" (Mom, my sister and me) make. These simple pine cones mean so very much to me.
There is an ornament on the tree from my childhood and a green bell from Mom's. Many ornaments were given as gifts by students, friends, and loved ones and they always bring warmth to us when we placed them on the evergreen. I have a few that remind me of the precious children I teach in Sunday School.
Our Christmas tree helps me remember. I think I understand a Christmas standard better now than I did in my younger days. At Christmas, I find myself going home, but it is to the home of yesteryear. I relieve treasured memories and revisit scenes from a time long ago:
I'm dreaming tonight of a place I love
Even more than I usually do.
And although I know it's a long road back,
I promise you
I'll be home for Christmas.
You can count on me.
Please have snow and mistletoe
And presents by the tree.
Christmas Eve will find me
Where the love light gleams.
I'll be home for Christmas,
If only in my dreams.
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