CHRISTMAS STILL HERE

In keeping with my wish to honor my talented friends, here is a beautiful little story written by my good friend, Pam. This is possibly an upcoming children's book, but it is such a wonderful reminder to all of us grown up kids to look for the Christmas spirit alive in everything and every activity year 'round. This is what we in Unity call the Christ spirit. And Pam was reminded of it by a dear grandchild. "Out of the mouths of babes.."

CHRISTMAS STILL HERE
by Pam Livingston

"There once was a little boy, only two years old, who had a grandmother who loved him very, very much.

It was Christmas time at Grandmother’s house, and the little boy was excited to find lots of gifts for him under her tree. A warm fire filled the room, surrounding all the family in its glowing light. A wreath hung on the door with beautiful flowers and fresh holly decorating it. Christmas tree lights reflected on the packages beneath, and the wonderful aroma of Christmas dinner filled the room. The magic of Christmas was truly in the air.

The following week the little boy’s mama brought him to visit his grandmother. Grandmother’s Christmas tree was still up, so when the little boy came into the room he exclaimed, 'Christmas!'

'No, Sweet One,' Grandmother said, 'Christmas is over.' The little boy disappeared behind the tree where he found the plug and outlet. Suddenly the Christmas lights came on and twinkled as gaily as ever. 'Christmas still here,' said the little boy, and Grandmother smiled.

Time passed and soon it was spring. Beautiful dandelions blossomed profusely in Grandmother’s yard. The little boy saw the golden sprinkles one day and picked a handful to give to his grandmother. 'Christmas still here,' he said, as he handed her the beautifully lopsided bouquet of bright yellow, and a small tear rolled down her check as she accepted his gift.

Summertime arrived and the hot Texas sun begged folks to plunge into water everywhere. Since he had grown so much, the little boy’s mama took him shopping for a new bathing suit. She bought him a ball to take to the beach to play with as well. The little boy, embracing his new gifts, looked up at his mama with a smile and said, 'Christmas still here.'

Months went by and the leaves began to turn colors and fall from the trees. Fruits were ripening and fresh vegetables were ready to be picked, so the family decided to gather at Grandmother’s for a barbecue followed with fresh apple pie and homemade ice cream. The aromas filled the air as the family gathered, and the little boy looked around, remembering. Suddenly he exclaimed, 'Christmas still here!' and everyone burst into jovial laughter.

The cold air outside was an invitation to build a glowing fire in Grandmother’s fireplace. One evening all the grandchildren gathered to play and relax in the warmth that enveloped Grandmother’s living room. Again, the little boy was reminded of another time all his cousins were gathered at Grandmother’s house, and he shouted, 'Christmas still here!'

Grandmother’s eyes glistened and she smiled as she said, 'Yes, Sweet One, you’re right. Christmas is still here.' Then she gathered all the grandchildren together and said, 'Christmas is in the red and green traffic lights and brightly lit signs. It’s in the flowers that bloom in the spring and decorate our world. It’s in the presents we buy and give, like new shoes for a little boy. It’s in the food we share with loved ones every day. It’s in the warm hearts of those who give love to one another and the world, all year long.'

Then Grandmother looked directly at her youngest grandchild and said, 'Yes, my dear Grandson, you are right. Thank you for showing us that Christmas is with us all the time.' And Grandmother gathered all her grandchildren up in her arms and gave them a big hug. And they hugged her back with so much love it filled her heart like the warm glow of Christmas."

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You all may remember Pam from another book of hers that I highlighted last year. This book -- again, for children of all ages -- is the first in her planned "Frendoval" series. The lovable character Frendoval travels around the world, noting how much we all are alike on the planet, and urging us to Love One Another. This book is available for purchase. Just let me know and I will put you in touch with Pam.

Pam would love to hear comments on her "Christmas Still Here" story. She has yet to work out her illustrations, but I hope you will all join me in encouraging her to publish this delightful little story in book form.

Until next time..

I behold the Christ in you. And yes, Christmas Still Here!

Peace and love,
Marilyn