The Timless Gift of Christmas Stories
Oct 25th, 2008 by Melanie West
Absconding in the attic, I rummaged through an unyielding box of Christmas decorations looking for the beautiful ornaments from years gone by, when, amidst the pile I land upon “the book.” Immediately a smile crosses my lips. Fond memories of Christmas’ past come flooding back. In my mind’s eye, I see my mother gathering our family together to read a favored story.
Throughout my childhood, and well into my teens, my mother would beckon my sister and I to gather around to listen to one of our most loved Christmas stories. For our family, this was the best Christmas had to offer. Peace and quiet spreading throughout the house, my mother’s loving voice carrying our thoughts off to far away places, the masterful words in these classic stories bringing the heart of Christmas home.
This ritual is perhaps my most loved family tradition. The memories of these times together have connected us to each other Christmas after Christmas. The stories becoming rich with meaning as my relationship with each character has grown over these many years.
These classic tales are rich with moral values, connecting oneself to a deeper understanding of the human condition. Each story has a magical twist that inspires and fortifies the soul. As I have grown, so has my appreciation for the meanings found in these story. I am ever thankful that my mother had the insight to read these stories over and over, allowing my understanding of these stories to grow as I grew.
I am grateful to my mother for understanding that children never outgrow the love of hearing a story read aloud. As she infused the passages with passion and meaning, my sister and I strengthen our resolve to train our own voices to speak with conviction and clarity.
So, as another season approaches, “the book” is being unpacked. My heart is grateful for the strong family traditions I grew up with, my soul anticipating the awakening of the true Spirit of Christmas. My inner child dancing with excitement, wondering which one of these “perfect” Christmas stories I will read to my children this December.
