Why do my family members run and hide when it's time to trim the tree? Could it be that it takes me three hours and that I have to tell the story behind every ornament? With Andre Bocelli or Celine Dion singing carols in the background, I exclaim, "Oh, look--here's Lana's ornament from 1995--a dog. She's always loved dogs." Hey Philip, do you remember Mr. Karkow, your first grade teacher? Here's the ornament he gave you in first grade." "Aww... look at the pretty gold treble clef. A sweet little girl named Olivia gave that to me when I taught preschool Kindermusic."
There was a beautiful tree inside Green Bank today. Only three different items adorned its branches: pine cones, birds' nests, and red berries. Everything was placed just so on the branches, making the tree perfectly coiffed and so ... southern living. I love creativity and symmetry and artistry but, while beauty may be in the eye of the beholder, real joy comes in the sweet memories of living and loving.
Our tree has tons of handmade and storebought "religious" treasures including stars and nativities and angels and crosses--yes, even crosses. The journey to the cross began at Christmas and therefore brings a hint of sadness; yet, that sadness is overshadowed by the unquenchable hope and assurance we have in Christ. Despite life's struggles and day-to-day battles, I know WHO wins in the end and ... I'm with HIM. Happy Advent!
There was a beautiful tree inside Green Bank today. Only three different items adorned its branches: pine cones, birds' nests, and red berries. Everything was placed just so on the branches, making the tree perfectly coiffed and so ... southern living. I love creativity and symmetry and artistry but, while beauty may be in the eye of the beholder, real joy comes in the sweet memories of living and loving.
Our tree has tons of handmade and storebought "religious" treasures including stars and nativities and angels and crosses--yes, even crosses. The journey to the cross began at Christmas and therefore brings a hint of sadness; yet, that sadness is overshadowed by the unquenchable hope and assurance we have in Christ. Despite life's struggles and day-to-day battles, I know WHO wins in the end and ... I'm with HIM. Happy Advent!
No comments:
Post a Comment