Christmas and Family: God Bless Us Everyone!

During this time of miracles, it’s pretty amazing that large families with in-laws and outlaws can come together peacefully from multiple directions to meet in one place for a few hours. Husbands have their immediate families, and wives have theirs. Children from previous marriages with two sets of households create a wishbone effect. If the children have children, get out the abacus! And, if a family member just got engaged, this Christmas they received invitations from at least two households.

The three kings came from afar, but they were not southern fireman! Some families come from afar, but not talking about geography here either. Thing is, in our large family, the greater the age disparity, the further apart we are in lifestyle, expectations, obligations, or what is considered cool.  

It mostly works out though. Maybe it’s the hunger for good food and semi-witty banter. Maybe it’s the exchange of presents in a carnival but thankful atmosphere. Maybe it’s the family ping pong championship, and the satisfaction of beating up on someone bigger than you. Maybe it’s the ensuing popcorn fight or chasing around with suction dart guns (not just the children either). There are Secret Santa and Dirty Santa gift exchanges to contend with, where someone always ends up with last year’s fruitcake re-gifted or a 10 pound bag of birdseed. Some things you can count on. Maybe that’s the point.

With technology changing weekly (excuse me, daily), kids growing up faster than a speeding bullet, and the passing of friends while the birthing of others…maybe we all unknowingly appreciate a positive constant on which we can depend.

Whether you believe in Christmas, or Hanukkah, change of seasons, or sanctity of family, we wish for you special strength and hope that comes from your belief, and that it works as a constant for you and your family. Happy Holidays!