It is odd that I choose "now" to think of Christmas. Now that it is December 27th, but as I am reflecting on my recent holiday, I have thoughts of Christmas.
What makes these thoughts come to mind is the fact that my father's birthday is Christmas Day. He celebrated turning 83 years young this year. But while "un-decorating" the tree this day, I began to reflect on Christmases of my childhood. While in later years we made it a point to celebrate dad's birthday; during our childhood his birthday was an afterthought.
He would always receive cards that said "On your Christmas Birthday", a Christmas cake was usually his birthday fare yet he never complained. Christmas was always for the kids.
We always celebrated by going to candlelight services at church on Christmas Eve and then Christmas Day was the day we opened presents and the family came over for dinner and laughter and fun. As we grew older, Christmas Eve consisted of a trip to Disney World then rush home for church and snacks afterward.
As my father turned 65, it was acknowledged that he had NEVER had a birthday party. Never. Not even as a child. So my mom planned him a surprise birthday party a few days prior to Christmas. No Christmas decorations anywhere - just birthday. My dad has never forgotten that day partly from the surprise and partly from the thoughtfulness of the event.
As a child, we always had great Christmases thanks to Dad. Someone else who sacrificed on that day.
Love you Dad.!
