My living room looks like the
aftermath of a Christmas Wrapping Paper factory explosion. Santas are torn in half, reindeer mauled and
snowmen reduced to puddles of afterthought.
For days they were safe under the tree, admired as they reflected the colored
lights above them. Now, it is merely a
barrier to be shredded in order to retrieve the prize inside. Ribbons are ripped, tags are tossed and paper
plowed through as the gifts are brought to life. Stockings are dumped, candy unwrapped, and I
already need another cup of coffee. It’s
Christmas! It’s finally arrived. I’ve waited long enough. The fat old man - no, not me - with the red
suit has made his magical appearance and the anticipation has been brought to
an ecstatic end.
My dad is more meticulous when it
comes to discarded wrapping paper.
Before any package is touched, he grabs a large Hefty trash bag and has
it opened beside him. As each gift is
opened, the paper is wadded up and tossed inside out of the way. You’re probably thinking my father is a neat
freak with OCD tendencies and you’re partly right. He is constantly going around the house
tidying up, picking up after the rest of us slobs, but that’s not the reason he
does it. Years ago, my Uncle Billy
bought Aunt Peggy an expensive diamond ring, which was oooed and ahhhed over
before being placed to the side for the next gift. Paper was everywhere as excited children dug
into their loot and when it was all done, clean up duty commenced. However, when all was spic and span, the
diamond ring was gone, somehow mixed in with all of the pieces of wrapping
paper. Everyone scoured the area and the
trash was sorted through, but the ring was never found. Thus, my dad is the paper police Christmas
morning, and the gifts have been safe ever since.
The Christmas paper this morning
will be safely tucked away as toys are played with and new games explored. Already, the house is beginning to smell like
Christmas dinner as the girls all pitch in to make everything perfect. Everyone is happy with their gifts, those
they received as well as those they gave.
A nap will be called for, of course, as an early morning saw all eyes
awake before coffee could be brewed.
Family will pop in and out, perhaps a friend or two. It’s Christmas and for today, at least, the
troubles of yesterday and tomorrow are forgotten. We’re not thinking of bills or work or fights
that could have been avoided. Today it’s
about healing, peace, and family.
So on this day my wish for you is
that you slow down and enjoy the love of those around you. Ignore the little things that may annoy you
and focus on the bigger picture of family and friends together. Savor the laughter and each embrace and say, “I
love you,” with each “Merry Christmas.”
*
* * * *
No comments:
Post a Comment