"The weather is bitterly cold at the moment, and with a chilly forecast ahead, there is every chance we could see snow on the ground by Christmas morn. It's funny how the association of Christmas, the snowman, Santa Claus and baby Jesus remains forever bonded in the memory of many adults since their childhood.
Who among us can deny the pleasure to be obtained from eating hot chestnuts outside on a snowy December day, tasting a mince pie and drinking hot mull wine down the Main Street of Haworth as they visit the Christmas Market? What more pleasant experience can a family have than singing carols with a group of like-minded souls in the chill night air,wrapped up warm and holding lit candles; and not forgetting that choked up emotion many of us get when attending Midnight Mass and singing 'Silent Night' as we tearfully remember those loved ones who are no longer with us, but who remains a part of us for as long as we live.
And as for seeing the magic of Christmas, simply gaze upon the smile and look of wonder on any small child's face as they open their presents on Christmas morning beneath the Christmas Tree, or catch sight of Father Christmas with his sack of goodies in the distance for the first time in their little life, or delve into a big bowl of Christmas trifle, smothered on top in rich cream. Roll on December 24th and all that follows this Christmas tide.
While there are many current trends to downgrade the spirituality of Christmas in today's modern society, I think such to be a grave mistake. I have always loved Christmas time and always will, and I always feel sorry for anyone who does not feel able to celebrate this season of the year.
As for the Scrooges and the perennial grumblers who cannot find anything good to cheer about; well they are welcome to kiss my.....Adam's apple." William Forde: December 7th, 2017.
https://youtu.be/0A8KT365wlA