The Smith’s Christmas card just arrived. The Reilly Family meticulously written with the help of a calligraphy pen (no Avery printed label affixed to their envelope). I turn it over and upon close examination find the return address has the same handwritten script lettering.
The
card is simple, adored with a winter scene.
Our full names again, neatly printed inside ~ To Christine, Ken and Family,
followed by a short, Merry Christmas!
message. “We certainly must be very
special… to receive such a lovely card from The Smith’s.”
But
every year, when the card comes in the mail - I am completely
flabbergasted. You see I have little to
no remembrance of The Smith’s. Somewhere
down the line, our lives intersected and we were added to their Christmas Card
List. I would venture to say we have
received a personalized card for the past 15 years. I can’t help but imagine Mrs. Smith smiling
with memories of us, as she puts the stamp on the envelope of their card. I envision The Smith’s getting to our name on
their list - excited to reach out with some holiday wishes. “From our Home – To Your Home.” But without fail their sentiments go
unanswered - as I have never mailed a card back. (Remember, I barely have the
faintest recollection of who they are).
This
brings up an ongoing debate between Ken & myself. It has to do with our Christmas Card List. Every year new friends and extended family
members earn a place on our list as a testament to the relationships we hold
dear. Now
comes the point of contention… when are families removed from the list?
Ken
holds firm to the Smiths’ notion of Never!
On the other hand, I believe in the ebb and flow of life…. There are
certain people who cross your path for a period of time. Usually for a reason – and exit as swiftly as
they arrived. In my mind, it is fitting
that after a few years with no interaction – the name gets axed from the List. (Yes, I’ve been told “Harsh” is my middle
name).
But
this year, the Smith’s Christmas card has me thinking differently….
Some
of the beauty of the season is recalling Christmas’s past – evoking memories –
remembering people on the journey – extending love and good cheer. Maybe, just maybe the Smith’s have it right!
Once a family’s name is included on your Christmas List – it should remain
there forever. The passing of time never diminishing the
important moment that family won a place on your sacred list.
Memories
and thoughts age, just as people do.
But
certain thoughts can never age, and certain memories can never fade.
I
hear Ken snickering after reading this story, knowing he has finally won the
argument. “Hey,” he asks, “Did it taste like vinegar the whole time you were
writing these words?” ... He has always been one to gloat!
 |
| Love, The Reilly's |
