Yesterday I decided to bring out my nativity set. I'm building a collection of these beautiful Fontanini items, and this is the first year that it seems complete. It reminds me of the nativity set we had in our home as children - chips and all, it was a very special reminder of the blessed holiday (and the cookies that were to come!). Today I added two miniature decorated trees, just behind the nativity. Finally, this is a home celebrating Christmas. Jeannette came down the stairs, saw the new decorations, and smiled as if she had never before seen decorations. Why did I think it was OK to leave the decorations in the closet this year? Because it has been a tough year? Because maybe it would be better to wait until next year? Because I'm tired? I now realize that this year above all others, we "need a little Christmas, right this very minute . . . "
For any of you struggling this year, for any reason, please try to fight the desire to keep the decorations in the closet. And, if you know someone who could use a little help, stop by and bring a little decoration or two to brighten their day. The outreach to others seems to bring unexpected and rich rewards . . . just like the beautiful smile I received this morning.
