I awake. It’s December the 24th shortly before 6 am. I pour a cup of coffee, turn on the Christmas lights on the tree, illuminate the hutch holding precious Christmas decorations, some from many many years ago. Santa’s, snow globes, decorative candles which have never been lit, and other items that conjure images of home, comfort, family, and tradition. I direct Alexa to play traditional Christmas music.

I sit in the living room with just the glow of these lights and no overhead on. All is quiet and calm. Family began arriving last night, they still sleep. My mind turns to Christmases past and all the beauty and magic that has been had in this home the last 40 years. I anticipate the excitement of the holiday this year. Having fulfilled bringing Christmas joy to families for the last 6 weeks, it is now my families turn to celebrate, to be together and enjoy all that the season has to offer.

I take the moment to ponder and reflect on all that has been. Not just this year, but years past. Many family members are no longer with us, and many more just do not come anymore. But it will be Christmas just the same. Christmas will always be Christmas. And though there is sadness thinking of who is not present, there is also much joy in reflecting on the memories I have of those Christmases long ago. And there is much joy in the anticipation for what tonight and tomorrow will bring.

I suppose that I just wanted to take a moment to wish you and yours a most blessed Christmas. To let you know that it is ok to have sadness and unsurety. Things can sometimes look bleak and uncheerful. And though sometimes we do not feel like it is Christmas, it is still none the less Christmas. For it is more than just a day. It is a frame of mind. And it is in the moments of our darkest hours that Christmas takes on a whole new meaning. Indeed it comes at the darkest time of the year. Rest assured, the days get longer and brighter. Merry Christmas dear ones.

Father Christmas of the Three Mountains