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An ornament on the editor’s Christmas tree, 2023
“My idea of Christmas, whether old-fashioned or modern, is very simple: loving others.”
-Bob Hope
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Dear Readers:
…..I must admit that the holiday season is not my favorite time of year. The tension that exists about expectation and obligation, the difficulty of traveling during winter, and all the associated financial drama put a dent in my own appreciation for the season long ago. As December 25 approaches I also find myself being cranky more often than I’d like. I get impatient with others, mumble and growl while at the wheel of my car, and feel that energy being likewise directed at me. It is tough environment in which to “love others.”
…..I do, however, hold countless loving and cherished childhood memories of family Christmas gatherings that were centered around the gifts under the heavily-ornamented tree, and the colorful family members seated around the festive dinner table. The public displays of affection and the spirited laughter of my Italian-speaking grandparents and their siblings are still seen and heard loud and clear in my memory, as are the kitchen aromas of the tomato sauce and the ravioli and the turkey and the chocolate that were essential to our gathering.
…..It was a day for loving my own family, and an opportunity for my elders to remind me about the importance of loving others, especially those in need. It was indeed a magical time. What would I give to have those days back? You name it.
…..So, while I may come across as an old “bah-humbug” sort of guy, I do respect the holiday traditions and revel at the joy children derive from them. And I especially respect the determination we humans put toward creating a celebration our own families will recall with the same rich warmth I do mine of many decades ago. It is a noble goal, and if it is yours, I hope you have fun while attaining it, and in the process those who experience it also learn the importance of loving others…all others. It’s what this season can be about.
…..Peace and health (and yes, love), to you and yours during this season, and beyond…
Joe Maita
Editor/Publisher
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Click here to listen to the 1965 recording of the instrumental version of the Vince Guaraldi Trio playing “Christmas Time Is Here,” with Guaraldi (piano); Monty Budwig (bass); and Colin Bailey (drums). [Universal Music Group]
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Click here to read The Sunday Poem
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