Had my father Gordon lived through his bout with cancer Friday would have been his seventy-third Christmas. It was not his favorite holiday for in his opinion it is far too commercialized and harried. He tired of the constant advertising and clever pitchmen selling their wares. With an upbringing steeped in religion, as much as he enjoyed holiday hymns he grew weary of hearing, "Jingle Bells," over and again. We laughed about it though.
(Portrait by Kurt Anderson)
He was no Scrooge but as holidays go he much preferred Thanksgiving and Easter. For him these were days to relish the camaraderie of living among others who were important people in his life, his family and friends. Days where good will was shared and people did not go into debt buying gifts for others, the economy be damned. Despite these feelings though he gave plenty in his life to those closest to him.
For some who observe Christmas I think the significance of the season is derived from giving someone an unexpected gift, no matter how modest. The real joy is manifested when the recipient replies in earnest, "Thank you!" This simple pleasure is there for the taking throughout the year-try it and you will see. To me the symbolism behind a gift given at any time is, "I have been thinking of you even when you're not with me." What greater gift can there be?
In this way the Christmas season for me is about remembering my father and other loved ones who are gone but not forgotten. Thanks for everything you have given me.
Acappella
