When he returned to the apartment every year after the trip back across the frozen river, my grandfather would run into his room to check the tattered stocking that he had hung from the bedpost. Somehow Santa found a way to put a peppermint stick in the sock, and sometimes a ball or new pair of socks. Believe it or not, my grandfather thought he was blessed to get these gifts and smiled in his old age as he recalled the happiness of getting anything in those austere times.
My grandfather never felt deprived about his Christmases past and, like I feel now, he seemed to think wistfully of those days and wished he could revisit them once again. As I sat there this morning, I felt amazed at how far our family had come from those times. My parents had raised us well in a comfortable home, providing us with opportunities for college and graduate school. As I looked into my son’s eyes, I felt fortunate that I could provide him with everything I had and, hopefully, a good deal more.
When my daughter and wife came downstairs and the presents began to be torn open, I placed my son in his bassinet and went over to the fireplace, staring at his and my daughter’s brimming stockings. I touched mine and it too was filled very well, but at the top a solitary candy cane glistened in the Christmas lights. I understood my grandfather’s happiness and felt blessed in so many more ways than I could ever be able to count at that moment.
Merry Christmas to all and to all a good 2009!
Article comments
1 - Joanne Huspek
Thank you. This is a wonderful piece.
2 - Victor Lana
I appreciate your taking the time to read my piece, Joanne.
3 - Mary K. Williams
I've been meaning to reply to the birth announcement email - so here's a happy 'Congrats' to you and your wife. : )
And this piece? -- exceptional, but I would expect nothing less from you Victor.
4 - Victor Lana
Double thank you, Mary K. Happy holidays and all that.