Christmas Memories...

Every year in December, I reflect back on Christmas’ past.

Every child has memories of a certain toy or gift that made you smile from ear to ear with excitement. There was the year of the Fisher Price kitchen set. I think every eight year old asked Santa for a kitchen set. It was as tall as me and likely weighed more than me. There was a pot of alphabet soup and a kettle that whistled. A toy that does not require batteries is tough to find these days.

When I was a teenager, I babysat for several families. I loved to babysit. To me it was fun to play and read with the kids.

On one Saturday in December, I was asked to babysit for a family with three kids. I loved this family and their kids, so I happily said yes. As it happened, this particular Saturday was during Chanukah. The family was Jewish, so before the parents left, they did the lighting of the menorah. I was not familiar with the words they said. What I remember most about that day, was that when they did the lighting ceremony, they invited me to participate. We held hands around the menorah and the recited a song in Hebrew. I felt so honoured to be included in such a meaningful event. I know that the family never thought twice about including me. I have never forgotten that day.

It did not matter that I was not Jewish or that they weren’t Christian. We were together and grateful for one another.

For Christmas this family gave me Hallmark ornaments of Mary and Joseph. I loved the ornaments when I received them and to this day they remain two of my favourite Christmas decorations.

When someone says ‘Happy Holidays’ to me, I am not offended in the least. It means that they wish me well.

My wish for you is happiness throughout the coming year!

Merry Christmas! Happy Chanukah! Happy Holidays to one & all!