CHRISTMAS MUSIC

This year, I got the Christmas Spirit early. I put my decorations up on November 22. I have been playing Christmas music and wearing my Christmas clothes and jewelry daily. You may be asking why? I am not sure. It could be that I am happy because I get to spend Christmas with my Oklahoma family, or that I am praising God for sending His Son into the world.

Part of the season is fun stuff, Christmas parties, musicals, getting together with friends, and baking (if you enjoy that!) The other part is stress. What do people want for Christmas? How am I going to pay for everything? And is Uncle Buck coming for the holidays?

One of the fun things I have been able to do is take part in the Sing-Along-Messiah. As we were sitting in the pew waiting for the event to start, I saw my Maid of Honor from my wedding. We were able to reconnect a few months ago. The bass soloist and the organist were also in my wedding. I had not seen them since 1987. I talked with them afterwards, and we had a good laugh.

For me, music is an essential part of Christmas. There are religious songs that hold significant meaning, such as Joy to the World, Oh Come All Ye Faithful, and Away in a Manger. Then there are the songs I sang as a child, like Rudolf the Red-Nosed Reindeer, Santa Claus Is Coming to Town, and Jolly Old Saint Nicholas. Finally, there's the song my dad, my brother, and I sang in the car on the way home from Thanksgiving with my grandparents: Grandma Got Run Over by a Reindeer. (My mom did not appreciate that song!)

I sang in several choirs over the years. I loved participating in the Christmas musicals. One of the highlights for me was singing in the choir for the midnight candlelight Christmas Eve service. At the end of the service, we walked out of the building with lit candles, and the congregation followed. At midnight, we were all outside, the church bells rang, and then we sang 'Silent Night.' It was an incredibly moving experience! However, one year, someone forgot to turn off the timer on the sprinkler system, and a little after midnight, the sprinklers came on, soaking everyone!

This year, I am spending time with family and getting to see my best friend, my niece, and my nephews. I haven’t gotten to spend Christmas with them for several years. This may be why I have Christmas Spirit.

I know for many, Christmas isn't a happy time. You might think you are a Grinch. The sadness in life can feel overwhelming, and the joy and stress of Christmas can be too much. There was a time in my life when I hated Christmas because of a considerable loss. I became known as the Grinch. Hang in there, because for most of you, things will get better. It's okay to take some time for yourself and celebrate, or not, the way you want to. Be kind to yourself.

Enjoy this Christmas season, practice some self-care, and turn on some Christmas music and sing or dance your way into it.