Social Baggage

I read the following poem and it made me think of Grandma. This is her first Christmas in Heaven. She was a staple of tradition in our family. Christmas, Easter, Thanksgiving. They were all centered around Grandma’s house. Funky colored Christmas trees, the annual gift exchange and even that nasty sausage cake (c’mon, you know it was gross) for Jesus’ birthday were things we could all count on at Christmas. Although it’s been a few years since we’ve been able to join the family for Christmas, this year feels especially sad knowing that Christmas at Grandma’s is only a memory.

And yet my sadness is mixed with hope as I watch the new life grow in Terry’s womb. We will form new traditions. Our family will have new grandparents and new children with new treasures to unwrap. We will have old memories to share as we create new ones to pass on to our own grandchildren.

It is a beautiful thing, this cycle of life. We wish all of you a blessed Christmas and joy throughout the new year.

MY FIRST CHRISTMAS IN HEAVEN

I see the countless Christmas trees
Around the world below,
With tiny lights like Heaven’s stars
Reflecting on the snow.

The sight is so spectacular,
Please wipe away the tears.
For I am spending Christmas
With Jesus Christ this year.

I hear the many Christmas songs,
That people hold so dear.
But the sounds of music can’t compare,
With the Christmas choir up here.

I have no words to tell you,
The joy their voices bring,
For it is beyond description
To hear the angels sing.

I know how much you miss me,
I see the pain inside your heart,
But I am not so far away,
We really aren’t apart.

So be happy for me dear ones,
You know I hold you dear,
And be glad I am spending Christmas
With Jesus Christ this year.

I sent you each a special gift,
From my heavenly home above.
I send you each a memory,
Of my undying love.

After all love is a gift,
More precious than pure gold.
It was always most important,
In the stories Jesus told.

Please love and keep each other
As my Father said to do.
For I cannot count the blessings,
Or love he has for you.

So have a Merry Christmas,
And wipe away that tear.
Remember I’m spending Christmas
With Jesus Christ this year.