Celebrate!

Christmas is my absolute favorite time of the year.  I love the lights, the smells, the hustle and bustle, the music, and the memories of Christmases gone by.  I love the traditions that have been passed down from my parents and that we are passing down to our kids. At our house, Pam and the kids put up and decorate the tree (this tradition probably stemmed more from my lack of patience with Christmas lights than with anything else). On Christmas Eve we have a traditional Filipino meal, usually with some friends.  Before going to bed, the kids each open only one present.  It’s always pajamas.  On Christmas morning the kids have to stay in their rooms until Pam and I get up (which somehow seems to be at the crack of dawn) and are downstairs so we can see their reaction to what Santa brought them.  One of the kids is designated “Santa’s helper” and we then alternate opening gifts one at a time.  It just takes forever. The memories that we have of all of our Christmases together grow more precious every year.  And after the kids have grown up and left home, I’m sure they will be even more precious.

Which brings me to my Christmas wish for the people of Anthony.  It is my sincere hope that as you celebrate this Christmas fully. 

I hope you celebrate the Light of Christmas.  2000 years ago the Greatest of Givers gave us the Light so that a world in darkness might see the truth.  In a year that saw the light of goodness and freedom threatened by the darkness of evil and terrorism, we can rejoice that the Light has not been extinguished, but burns brighter than ever.

I hope you celebrate the Love of Christmas.  There is no gift that can compare to the gift of love.  In a year that saw unimaginable hatred we can rejoice in the unselfish acts of heroism that overcame that hatred.

I hope you celebrate the Life of Christmas.  On the first Christmas morning, the Gift that was given to us enabled us to receive eternal life.  In a year that saw so much death and destruction, we can rejoice in the lives of those we love.  And we can honor the lives of those who gave of themselves so that others may live.

The true meaning of Christmas is not material gifts.  This year, let’s spend a little extra time making memories with our friends and families.  Let’s hug them a little tighter.  Let’s tell them we love and appreciate them.  As we celebrate this most joyous of seasons, let’s pause for a moment and remember those who have been taken from us this year.  Let’s say a little prayer for the families whose Christmases won’t ever be complete again.  And let’s say a prayer for our soldiers that are defending our freedom and their families.

We have much to celebrate.  I hope you and your families have the best, most special Christmas ever.

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Last modified:  March 28, 2006  

Copyright 2002 Anthony 9-11 Memorial Committee