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Nostalgia December 2015

As I Recall...

Memories of Christmases Past

By Jerry Ginther

The Salvation Army bell ringers, the little corner bands, nativity scenes and groups of carolers moving about the streets all enhance the exhilaration of the season. They are traditions that revive in us a magical and mutual feeling, and for many of us the remembrance for our joy at this time of year, for the birth of Christ.

Many of my generation will remember the fragrance of a freshly cut Douglas fir or spruce Christmas tree. Some may remember actually harvesting a tree from a wooded area where you could choose your tree and cut it yourself. There were grower/vendors in some areas that allowed cutting your own or you could purchase one from several that had been previously cut and priced according to size.

During the ‘40s and ‘50s, my childhood years, most families would acquire a new, live tree each Christmas on which to display their colorful ornaments and lights. Today, most of the trees are artificial, flame-retardant and serviceable for many years. However, it seems to me that these holidays are coming around more frequently and I’m putting our tree together and taking it apart more often than I used to in years past.

Over the years there have been gradual changes in many of the decorations, particularly the strings of lights. When I was 5 or 6 years old, the size of Christmas tree bulbs was considerably larger.  The bulbs were round, much like a regular incandescent light bulb. That has changed over the years as the strings of lights have gotten longer and the bulbs much smaller. Also, like the artificial trees, the newer versions are much safer. The old fashioned types were very easily broken and more prone to being a fire hazard. Advancing technology has actually made the electric lights prettier as well as safer.

I love being out on cold evenings, going from store to store, being in the crowd of busy shoppers, and hearing the greeting, “Merry Christmas” from smiling faces. Who could imagine this time of year without the magic of this cheerful greeting and the ringing of the bells produced by the Salvation Army volunteers? Also, many of the stores are playing Christmas music ranging from “Frosty the Snowman” and “Rudolph the Red-nosed Reindeer” to softer themes of roasting chestnuts and warm fires that stimulate thoughts of a romantic and cozy holiday. The cold and snow are outside; love and hot chocolate are inside.

One thing I haven’t heard in recent years, though, is the little three- or four-piece bands that used to play Christmas carols on city street corners during the holiday season. Perhaps I just haven’t been in the right place, but it is something I have missed. The Salvation Army bell ringers, the little corner bands, nativity scenes and groups of carolers moving about the streets all enhance the exhilaration of the season. They are traditions that revive in us a magical and mutual feeling, and for many of us the remembrance for our joy at this time of year, for the birth of Christ.

When I’m out among the throngs of shoppers, their spirit is animating. Fortunately, we still have the tradition of caroling where I live and most stores allow the Salvation Army to set up their bright red, collection canisters near their doors and ring those joyous bells to their heart’s content. I believe those bells are the next best thing to sleigh bells in the snow.

I love Christmas more each year. As a father and grandfather I know that the giving of gifts and the excitement of children creates lasting memories. Still, the Christ child is the reason for the season so; perhaps my appreciation for God’s greatest gift to humanity has expanded over the years as well.

This is also the time of year when we say goodbye to the old year and look forward to a brighter, happier new year. I’m wishing all of you a very, “Merry Christmas” and a most prosperous and happy new year!

 

Jerry Ginther grew up in Sullivan, Illinois, with a few brief departures over the years. He served two years in the U.S. Army, and has a degree in Christian Ministry. He is the author of Acquiring the Benefits of Biblical Wisdom, available in ebook format on Amazon.com. He and his wife reside in Texas.

 

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