I could barely see her behind the cart filled with what were obviously Christmas gifts. Most of the purchases were bagged with the exception of the large boxes that contained items such as a Vizio flat screen TV, Shark steam cleaner, Paula Deen cookware, and what appeared to be a laptop computer. As she passed in front of me, I was able to see the expression on her face and it was one of confusion and frustration, with just a hint of anger. There were no silver bells or Christmas angels hovering over as she unloaded the gifts quickly into the back of her SUV, gave the blue, hard plastic cart a haphazard shove, and finally threw herself behind the wheel of her car; head briefly resting on the back of her seat in what was obviously a show of exhaustion.
“Merry Christmas,” I whispered in my most sarcastic tone. “Merry, merry Christmas.”
I shook the negative cobwebs from my head and headed home. For the past three years, I have purchased many of my gifts online and believe me, my friends, it is not my preferred way of shopping. I miss the energy in the stores and the well wishes and holiday word exchange between strangers. I miss seeing the Christmas pins on bright red coats, green and red earrings that sparkle and jingle, and the display of artificial trees that boast the latest and brightest ornaments, lights, and garland. I miss the nervous Santas surrounded by little ones who cannot decide if they want to laugh or scream, while optimistic moms and dads push them gently toward Santa, urging them to tell him all of their Christmas dreams. Most of all, I miss the nativity displays and the sponsors who are not afraid or hesitant to say the words Baby Jesus, Wise Men, Angels, Star of David, Mary, Joseph, and Heavenly Father.
After all is said and done and all politically correct words are spoken, we are celebrating the birth of Christ. Perhaps the most miraculous thing of all is the acceptance, deep respect, and acknowledgement of all religions as we honor the birth of the son of God. And, yes, I am one of those who believe that tiny infant wrapped in swaddling clothes is indeed the Son of God.
Two thousand fourteen years ago, the gifts delivered to the newborn baby in Bethlehem were symbolic and simple. They were given with great purpose and hope. The birth of this child promised a new perspective and clarification of God’s word. The epic birth of God’s son should, in itself, be enough, but we have gotten lost along the way, my friends. We now clamber over each other for an unbelievable buy. We trudge through the stores bewildered and overwhelmed and we wrap each gift with hesitation, hoping it will be enough.
I wonder sometimes just who we are trying to impress and why? Is this really what it is all about? No. It is about kindness, compassion, and respect. It is about the birth of a tiny baby who turned the world around. And regardless of how you wrap it up, it is about love; pure, unconditional, everlasting love. And that is the most magnificent gift of all.
Belinda Wilcox Ouellette lives Connor TWP with her husband Dale. You may contact Belinda online at: dbwouellette@maine.rr.com.
