On The Eve of Gratitude
Do you remember the Christmas morning scene from ‘A Christmas Story’? Ralph and Randy raced down the steps to the Christmas tree at the crack of dawn…and began to rip through their presents at light speed. The excitement was peaked, as they began to uncover all that Santa had delivered.
The part that sticks out to me…is after they’ve unwrapped all the gifts and played with them for a while (including Ralphie nearly shooting his eye out). Both boys started to wind down. Randy fell asleep on the floor next to the tree with his zeppelin.
It was at that moment, that Mom & Dad sat silent in the chair…admiring the snowy view out of the window, watching Randy sleep with a smile on his face, and looking at each other with an exhale of contentment.
They didn’t say anything…but I have to imagine, that that was the moment when their gratitude peaked.
That was the moment, following all of the preparation and hustle and bustle leading up to Santa’s visit…where they were able to really soak it all in. They were witness to their children’s joy, and they were able to reflect on all of their blessings…in that one, quiet moment.
At least that’s how it seemed to me.
And in these final moments before the Christmas celebration, I can’t help but anticipate that very same moment. Or, more likely, moments.
Because you see, I am one lucky MO-FO.
In the next 24 hours (or so), I will be subject to more warmth, more fellowship and more giving than a person likely deserves. I will witness my children’s joy, I will feel the genuine caring of family and friends, and I will receive the love of an incredible woman.
Damn I’m lucky.
Damn I’m grateful.
For days like this. And for you.
Merry Christmas, friends.
