Let’s hold onto Christmas

As the decorations disappear from our neighbors’ homes, we’re still holding onto Christmas in our house.

Every morning, after I get up, I go to our living room and turn on the lights on the tree. We might as well enjoy the beauty of the season a little bit longer. Most years I get tired of Christmas a little sooner, but this year, I don’t want to let Christmas go.

Maybe it’s because we were a little late decorating this year.

Maybe it’s because Christmas was quieter for us than it often is.

Maybe it’s because the days have been so dreary and gray.

Maybe it’s just because Christmas is so beautiful.

But I want to hold onto all of it a little longer.

Can we just keep the tree glowing and the holiday music playing? Can we keep the nativity up with the wise men hovering near Baby Jesus? Can we keep the electric candles in the window and the lights on the outside of the house?

As Catholics, of course, we can. Christmas extends through the Baptism of the Lord on Sunday. Then Christmastide continues through Candlemas on Feb. 2. I’m in no rush to put Christmas away.

I never understand why we hurry to move on from Christmas during this dark, cold time of the year. Christmas adds so much beauty and light to winter. This year, especially, I’m seeking light in the darkness, looking for beauty and goodness in a time that feels rather heavy.

The shepherds who were summoned by angels from the fields must have wanted to hold onto all that they discovered waiting in the manger. When they returned to their flocks, how did they capture the joy of Christmas and keep it with them? I like to imagine them sharing their stories again and again, perhaps making up songs about the Baby in the manger and the Mother who held him, describing different details of the night, and smiling to remember the choruses of Glorias in the sky.

Christmas, of course, isn’t about trees and lights and presents. It is about peace and joy and hope. It’s about the gift of Love. It’s about miracles. Regardless of when we take down our tree, remove the wreaths, and throw the wrapping paper away, maybe we can find ways to hold onto the joy of Christmas a little longer—and carry it with us in our hearts.

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