I remember that star. It was simple. It was shiny. It was special. With five children at home, I know my parents had plenty to keep them busy. Yet for some reason, they chose to make the star for the top of the Christmas tree that year.
In that time, we didn't have Walmart or huge stores to buy everything we thought we needed. We lived simply. We made most of what we needed. We had a huge garden. Mom canned food for the winter. Dad worked hard as a carpenter. Mom worked hard as a homemaker. It was a treat to go out to eat once a month or so. We had what we needed and we knew the difference between wants and needs.
I am sure there were tree tops for sale at the store in town. But the only star I truly remember during my childhood years...is the star Mom and Dad made. Dad designed, measured and cut it precisely and perfectly. Mom used aluminum foil to wrap around it...with no creases, wrinkles or tears. It was a genuine labor of love. It was beautiful. It is remembered...vividly.
Noticing advertisements online, on television and in the paper, I realize that we have lost the gift of simplicity. The abundant offerings for "the perfect Christmas" will soon be forgotten. Sure, I enjoy decorated trees, Christmas music, surprising loved ones and making memories each year. Yet it seems challenging to remain focused in such an atmosphere of hurry, worry, expense and expectations.
I want to remember the Star of that first Christmas. I want to remember how Someone loved us so much that He sent His only Son to this earth. I want to remember that through simplicity came a Savior, through miracles came a Messiah and through love came our Lord. I want to look upward and see a beautiful, simple, perfect Star Who was given as a labor of love...for us. May I remember Who really matters...every day...vividly.<3~thl
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