And another peaceful, contented Christmas is passing by. I had often said that Christmas should be freed from the market. However, all available figures indicate that the most shopping in the world takes place during this festive season. We have the right to criticize that Christmas is not bought from store. They are not the best celebration of Christmas. But even that seems to be an indicator of the spiritual height that isn't too small.
If we look at the items that are sold the most during Christmas, it is not decorative items; it is not Christmas goodies; it is not Christmas lights or Christmas cards or Christmas trees. The best-selling areas are electronic devices such as phones and TVs, clothes and toys. Is it because people are doing the shopping for themselves or for their homes that so much shopping takes place during this season? Of course not. String lights, colorful decorations, and food and drinks are only a small part of Christmas sales. The market is so buzzing because it is during Christmas that most people give gifts to others. Everything else happens during all festive seasons, right? People affectionately remember their loved ones, friends, acquaintances, colleagues, and classmates, and give gifts, big or small: and that is the most appropriate thing to do in keeping with the spirit of Christmas. Visits, gifts, and hugs: aren't they the manifestations of goodness in humans?! Of course it is possible to give much better gifts of love. But I don't think that purchasing and giving gifts with the hard-earned money is something that shouldn't be underestimated.
Every year at Christmas, someone has sent me cards; phone messages; and given gifts. This year, for the first time in my life, I had another experience. I don't think many people have had such an experience. I have been close to a family for some time now. There is a ninety-year-old mama: Angela. Through her son we had come to know each other. When her daughter passed away during the Covid period, she invited me, to conduct the funeral. Since then, she has treated me like a member of her family. Angela, who had led the parish choir for many many years, still sings superbly. Every week, she voluntarily goes to a hospital not far from her home, to play piano and to sing for the patients. Yesterday was Christmas Eve. Angela called me through her son, who is also slightly older than me. She lives five states away from me. We talked for a while, and shared some Christmas where-abouts. She asked if I had a little more time to spare. I said I was not at all in a hurry. She said that their Christmas gift to me were two Carols. Angela played the piano and Ed played the guitar, and they both sang together. "O Come Let Us Adore Him"; "Silent Night". What a melody! Beautiful singing.
Two people are singing to me, from five states - hundreds of miles away, over the phone!
I actually wept.
In what wonderful ways can people become unforgettable gifts to others!!
