Every way I glanced today I saw lovely splashes of crimson among the freshness of winter's newly sprung greenery. There is something strangely exuberant about this sudden change of weather, something intriguing and wonderfully exciting. I love the feel of frigid air upon my cheek, as I gaze above to branches being whipped about in a brisk wind. My mind of late has been wondering off to thoughts of Christmas, I so adore that time of year. Wreaths hug on every lamppost, dancing fires in the hearth, tiny twinkling lights that transform even the plainest of structures into a festive wonderland, and a feast for the eyes of every passerby. It is a time of cheer and thanksgiving, sweet gatherings of celebration and heartfelt gratitude. I have realized that my excitement does not stem from the thought of piles of perfectly wrapped presents, rather it comes from a longing for the innocent beauty of Christmas. Surrounded by family and friends as we sing together carols of that little baby born in a stable so long ago, serving each other with unselfish love, giving gifts not out of obligation but of joy, finding pleasure in the simplest of tasks, and all the while remembering the true reason for this glorious season.
I love Christmas music. It has such a feel of old fashioned romance to it... though perhaps I should not say
all Christmas music. Jingle Bell Rock and Frosty the Snowman were not exactly what I had in mind. No, the songs I speak of are as soothing and thoughtful as lullabies. Their words paint pictures of warmth and bring joy to me no matter what the current season may be. They share tales of angles and kings, shepherds and swaddling cloth, cleverly placed mistletoe and dancing ladies. Intertwined in them all is always joy, hope, and love...
