Ho Ho Ho, I heard the sleigh bells and the stamping of tiny reindeer feet on our roof. I had eggnog, sugar cookies, sugar kisses and candy canes. We had joy, fun, togetherness and true family love for many hours. Yes, I did have a great Christmas.
I am a born again Christian, as is my entire family, and we know the reason for celebrating Christmas. We know Jesus came to save us and our eternity depends entirely on Him. We also know that a myth or two does not reduce the importance of the birth of Him, who said, "I Am." We pray and we are devout and we sincerely are thankful for the virgin birth, the beginning of His trip to the cross.
That said, Santa Claus is a jolly old elf and we welcome him on Christmas Eve night. The stockings, some in gallon sizes, are hung, the cookies and milk are properly placed and carrots are left for the team. Our expectations are high and by midnight we are all tucked into our bed in our night caps, or not.
Christmas morning all those limp socks were bulging with goodies and more presents were placed around the tree. I am pretty sure that the Grands take a double dip with their stockings, one here at the headquarters and one in each home. I do know that the gifts are many and varied, pleasing and puzzling, like why did I get this thing and sure am glad I got that. Some fit and some cause fits!
The iPhone was a fit causer and the happy dance was a sight! The new boots did not fit and I suspect the feller was sorta glad because I could tell he was not real pleased with the color. He looked at me rather shocked and then continued to smile and be gracious. A young'un with manners and I was proud of him. He sure did not want the blue and red boots but he was gonna be nice anyway!
My close relative is a marvel and we all appreciate her and the fine things she does for us. We enjoy the pies and candy, the decorations and the meal that is more a feast than a meal. The other female family members are also to be praised, food is brought in and all is wonderful. I am in the best place any living human can be. I am catered to, loved on, gifted and thanked. I get coffee brought to me, new house shoes, and the offspring clean up the living room after the grand opening!
It is my opinion, and everybody has one, America is a free country, a costly freedom but one we all enjoy. How you choose to celebrate is your own business and I will hold that freedom dear, but I do hope you had a great time! I hope your eyes saw what you wanted to see, your meal was filling and your thirst slaked. I hope you determined what was important and what was just fluff. I wish you a very happy New Year and may your riches increase! Remember, all riches are not monetary!
Bill is the pen name of the Gravette area author of this weekly column. Opinions expressed are those of the author.
Editorial on 12/31/2014