As a young child, I can remember many christmases not being so Merry and Bright. There were five children in our family, which meant mom and dad struggled each and every year just to make ends meet. Come Christmas Time, there wasn't a whole lot of extra money for gifts. I think it is a natural yearning for young children to want "stuff", and it isn't until we become older, that we realize exactly what is important about Christmas. As the years went by, my two older siblings left the nest and entered the military, which usually meant two less family members around, during the Holidays. It was until my teenage years when I began to realize that it wasn't all the "presents" that made Christmas Special. It was the "presence" of family, sitting around the table for a comforting Christmas Feast.
So very often, Holiday Time is a sad time, for those who reflect on the loss of loved ones. While they are no longer with us, we CAN keep their memories alive, by purchasing a memory bulb in their name. And let us not forget our pets who have long since gone. Remember them too, by purchasing a memory bulb, in their name, through a local Animal Shelter.
How forutnate we are, to have the gift of families, to build new memories and preserve old ones. As we enter into this Holiday Season, please remember those that are less fortunate. Invite somebody into your home for a holiday dinner, donate a gift from a memory tree or an angel tree, or donate perishable items to a local food pantry. |
