Around Christmastime, each family has its own traditions
whether it’s decorating the Christmas tree, singing Christmas carols, baking
delicious treats, or trading secret Santa gift. In my family, it’s a tradition
to watch the Charlie Brown special on each holiday with our favorite being A Charlie Brown Christmas. From Lucy’s
antics and the iconic Charlie Brown Christmas tree to the all-cast Christmas carol
at the end, this special show warms my heart every time I watch it. One of my
favorite scenes from this episode is when Linus tells Charlie Brown the true
meaning of Christmas:
“And there were in the same country shepherds abiding in the
field, keeping watch over their flocks by night, and lo the angel of the Lord
came upon them and the glory of the Lord shone round about them, and they were
sore afraid, and the angel said unto them, ‘Fear not, for behold, I bring you
tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people. For unto you is born this
day in the city of David, a savior, tis Christ the Lord. And this shall be a
sign unto you. You shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes lying in a
manger.’ And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly hosts,
praising God and saying, ‘Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good
will toward men.’ That's what Christmas is all about, Charlie Brown.”
The older I have gotten, the more I have appreciated
Christmas for its true meaning as well as for the time spent with family.
Giving becomes more valuable than receiving and the little things in life get a
little bit bigger.
As Kris Kringle tells us in Miracle on 34th Street, “Christmas isn’t just a day. It’s
a frame of mind.” Around this time of year, we see the good in people emerge
everywhere we go. If I could have one Christmas wish come true, it would be to
see more of that kindness happen throughout the year. You never know when one
small act of kindness could turn an entire day around for someone else. Try it
one week. Each day, challenge yourself to do something nice for somebody else
and expect nothing in return. You may just feel like the Grinch when he gets
all warm and fuzzy on the inside.
Blessings to you and your family on this special day!
Merry
Christmas to all and to all a good night.
