2013 Christmas in America

     One Christmas morning in 1974 I remember waking up as a kid whose father was in the U.S. Army serving in Alaska, and seeing this beautiful little silver tree setting by the window that morning and thinking how lucky I was. I remember how long and hard my father worked to give us kids a Christmas and what it meant to him and my mom to see all of us happy.  The best part of that morning was when my mother pulled open the certain and a large moose was looking through the window at the lights on the tree and it startled her so bad she hollered to my father "Darrell there is a moose on the back porch". But this was Alaska so we went on with our day as normal. I remember setting there opening my presents while my parents took Polaroids (pictures) and understanding the bond we had as a family was not over gifts but was over the love and respect we had for each other. Later that morning we went outside to play with our friends and I seen all the adults wish each other a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year, no matter what religion or color or background they came from. It seemed to me like one large family and it felt that way as well. And AWE the Dinner, it was great as usual because my mother was a fantastic cook. But before dinner we said grace at the table "everyone present". We set down as a family, with no distractions, no TV, just us. And as I look back on it, it was the happiest time in my life. A moment in time that will never be forgotten.

     2013: How many families do this? How many people express to someone "Merry Christmas"? Most people will say to me, we have to respect different groups rights, so you cannot say Merry Christmas because it might offend someone. Think about it they are words "Merry Christmas" that's all, there is no threat  no implications of pushing some into a religious following. Just words of affection and greetings. 


     Are we really better off now than then? Did you hear of school shootings? Knock out games? Indiscriminate killings? Constant lecturing on the right or wrong things to say to certain groups. 

     I still remember that day in 1974 and I wish everyone could have a day like that. Where did those Americans go? 


I wish everyone a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. :)