2020 is finally slouching towards conclusion and Christmas will soon be upon us again. As I reflect on this time of year, it occurs to me that this is when I think of my childhood most. One of my fondest recollections from those past Christmas seasons is A Charlie Brown Christmas. It was a yearly tradition in my house to watch that cartoon. I’m happy to report that Zack and Tommy both like it.
Even after all these years that wonderful story of the Christmas play and the little tree, and Charlie Brown’s angst-filled cry against the commercialism of the season, still manages to tug my heartstrings.
Have you ever read the lyrics of the song “Christmas Time is Here” that plays in the background during part of the cartoon? Have a look:
Christmas time is here Happiness and cheer
Fun for all that children call Their favorite time of the year
Since many of the traditions of the season focus on children, it’s easy to think that Christmas is only for kids. But Christmas is for all of us. Christ came into the world for everyone, even (and perhaps especially) for those who don’t think they need Him.
Snowflakes in the air Carols everywhere Olden times and ancient rhymes Of love and dreams to share
Music is such a wonderful part of this season. We reserve special songs with special words for this time of year, not only carols but hymns as well. Emotions are invoked in their singing that, because they don’t fit in any other place or time, create sacred space for us.
Sleigh bells in the air Beauty everywhere Yuletide by the fireside
And joyful memories there
Christmas is indeed a time of memories: of relishing old ones or creating new ones, or both.
Christmas time is here We'll be drawing near
Oh, that we could always see Such spirit through the year Oh, that we could always see Such spirit through the year...
The last four lines say it all. We tap into something during the Christmas season that should be there every day of the year. How we act when we have the ‘holiday spirit’ is how we should treat everyone everywhere all the time.