Remembering a Christmas past

The stars seemed exceptionally bright that night. It was Christmas Eve, always a time of wonder for me. I remember trudging through the church parking lot with two sleepy children in tow. The snow crunched under our boots and seemed to sparkle from the lights above us. The church was always crowded on Christmas Eve.

Christmas clothing of red and green added color to the occasion.The voices of the congregation rose in joyful praise as we sang traditional Christmas hymns. Evergreen trees, poinsettias and red bows were placed near the altar. The depictions of Jesus' birth with life-like representations gathered in a small stable helped to emphasize the real meaning of the celebration.

We were surrounded by friends and neighbors, smiling with happiness. The children slept during most of the Mass, probably dreaming of Santa and toys, while the adults participated in the service. Returning home, the house was quiet. The Christmas tree lit up the darkness as both children were put to bed.

I love the memories of Christmases past. Life seemed so much simpler then. Now we can travel around the world in the blink of an eye. Technology brings the world's violence into our homes, schools and places of employment. It seems impossible to escape it. I long for the traditions of past Christmases but realize I can't return. I must move on. Now I keep some traditions from the past as I try to build new traditions more relevant to the present.

I wish all a Christmas filled with peace and love and a new year filled with hope.