Christmas Time for Sharing Love, Family

 Rebecca Smith, staff writer

Christmas for me is summed up in two words: love and joy. Throughout the past 18 years of my life, Christmas has been the highlight of every year.

The one thing I’ve leaved through the years of watching my family during the holidays is that love is what holds the magic of Christmas. Presents are a wonderful accessory that add to that magic. But without love, a present is merely an item without any sense of worth.

Ever since I can remember, the holidays have held a very special place in my heart. There is so much peace in the air, holding an essence that what is celebrated is truly a delightful experience for both old and young.

My grandparents hold a very special place in my heart when thinking about the holidays. Knowing that their love for each other has been passed on to their children and grandchildren can not be overlooked. To think that every person there, celebrating the holidays, is a part of that love that has evolved into something much greater than how it began.

What stands out in my mind when thinking of past Christmases is not what gifts I unwrapped that year, but the family that stood nearby as the wrapping paper came off. Some of my favorite memories are those that have happened on that special day of celebration.

It is a custom in my family that on Christmas Eve, after filling our stomachs, the males of the family take an hour long nap. However, what stands out from this tradition for me has always been seeing Granddaddy cover himself in newspapers for warmth instead of simply grabbing the blanket right next to him. As a child, I remember always wondering about how peculiar it seemed, but Granddaddy has never seemed to mind.

Next, after waking up, and sneaking small amounts of divinity and fudge, we head into the living room for presents and stockings. Even though I can never seem to remember exactly what all of my presents were for that particular holiday, I will always remember the laughter and jokes that never seem to get old about underwear that has been received. Nana always makes sure that everyone has gotten something that they enjoy, while Granddaddy wraps his head in one of the ribbons from his presents.

While all is being cleaned away, my Uncle Mark tells humourous stories that have everyone holding back tears, and my brother, Randall, joins in on the joke. The mood is light and wonderful, with two rounds of dessert being consumed at slow rates.

Of course, as the day ends, and the car is packed up to leave, we all hug and say our goodbyes.

I was never truly aware of how special those Christmases were. Sometimes, with all the bustle of the holidays, it is hard to appreciate the love that seems to hold us all together. Maybe, this Christmas, when you see your family, maybe for the first time all year, you will look at the holiday a different way. Christmas is a time of family; a time of love and joy.