When I was growing up, Christmas was one of the most exciting times of the year for my family. We didn't have a lot of money, but Mom and Dad was always able to give us at least one thing we really needed....love. They also reminded us what the true meaning of Christmas was all about.
After we all grew up and left home, his love just continued to grow as each grandchild arrived. He seemed to be able to give his full attention to everyone. His Christmas list just kept getting larger. He and Mom would shop all year long, keeping their eyes open for inexpensive gifts they thought the grandchildren would enjoy.
A few years before his passing, he suffered a severe heart attack that left him unable to work and provide income for himself and Mom. So, they started walking, picking up tin cans along the streets and highways. Contacting the local golf course, they collected cans on a weekly basis. Living in a small town, somehow they survived. Always making sure he didn't forget the family during the holidays, he began making homemade candy.
It wasn't many years after Dad's passing, we lost Mom. The greatest gift they left to their family was the memories of their unselfish love. For me, Christmas is a reminder to help, unselfishly, others that are less fortunate than we are.
Have a safe and happy holiday everyone.
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