I think it is safe to say that we all have a favorite Christmas memory. Whether it is a certain tradition or just one particular event that stands out in our mind, we all have at least one memory that reminds us of what this season is all about. I would venture to believe that for many of us, that moment has very little to do with material things.
My favorite Christ
mas memory occurred when I was maybe 11 or 12 years old. As I have mentioned before, I grew up in Eastern North Carolina – an area notorious for spring tornadoes, summer hurricanes, and winter ice storms. My family is heavy on tradition, especially when it involves the holidays. For as many years as I can remember, we always spent Christmas Eve with my mom’s side of the family. On Christmas morning, my parents would host my dad’s side of the family for breakfast. I loved these traditions when I was growing up and have drawn many smaller memories from each year.
However, that particular year will always be one that stands out from the rest. On Christmas Eve, that part of North Carolina was hit with an ice storm. My parents decided to take the risk and make the hour drive to visit my mom’s family. The weather became worse as the night went on. By 9 p.m., a thin coating of ice had already formed on the trees and power lines. We made it home safely only to find that the power had gone out.
By Christmas morning, a thick layer of ice covered nearly everything in sight. We began making phone calls to let the family know that we would not be able to host them this year. Since we had no electricity, there was no way we would be able to cook breakfast. However, no one would accept that our traditional get-together was impossible. Through the use of my uncle’s camping stove, our wood stove, and a small generator to power the kitchen, we were able to serve Christmas breakfast as usual. Everyone arrived safely without even one person considering that travel would be treacherous.
That Christmas morning would not have been possible had the entire family not bonded together as a unit to make it happen. It is by far one of my favorite Christmas memories. It proved what the holidays are all about – family, togetherness, love.
What is your favorite Christmas memory?
