|
| |
It’s Christmas Again
Every man’s memory is his private literature
- Aldous Huxley, 1894-1063, British Author
This tiempo navideño is to be joyous, with much hope and rejoicing. As
one gets older, I find that I must share my private literature. I find that my
memories contain information about Christmas past in our family.
I wouldn’t say that both sides of my family were super religious, but I did
learn at an early age, through catechism and grand parents, the real meaning of
Christmas.
I guess the sentimiento that I feel now could also be joyous. I have come
to realize that as the oldest I have experienced a Christmas that the younger
ones are not aware of.
Sugar plum fairies did not dance in my head. I knew for sure that at this time
of year there would be lots of time in church and lots of good eating. Some
members of my extended family would give me problems to giggle about. “Where is
that calf we fed the last time we were here?” they once asked. I just smiled and
told them that the calf was probably out in the pasture. I couldn’t bear to tell
them that it was probably on the dinner table.
I’m not sure that I could explain to my siblings the different little things
that so many aunts and uncles brought to the gatherings. Their numbers have
depleted so much in the last 30 years.
How important are presents? I can’t remember one present I received prior to my
18th birthday. But I can remember who was there and the times we shared. Times I
cannot share today.
I am convinced that these many memories assisted in making certain Christmases
passable. Especially the ones I spent on hot, humid days in Vietnam.
Let us all share in peace and harmony this weekend. And to those of you that
have gone on, we will share the memories of Christmas past with you.
¡Feliz Navidad!
|
