It's "Little Christmas" in my family today, a day when candy canes, carols and kids of all ages play together. For me it is the kick-off day for Christmas celebrations.
When our children were little they woke up on December 6 to find the breakfast table set with their Christmas placemats and mugs along with a small gift and always a candy cane.
Over the course of the day, or so - sometimes my plans were too ambitious for just one day! - the decorations - garlands, window clings, wreaths and more - made their annual appearance and Christmas music filled the house; a fun, festive counterpoint to the herald of Christmas found in the sacred texts.
According to my children's bible way back when, John the Baptist was NOT someone you wanted to bump into first thing in the morning, nor any time of the day for that matter! He is one formidable, scary character. He ate bugs, wore camel fur and hung out with snakes. And he yelled a lot, “Prepare the way, make the paths straight, you brood of vipers.”
I much prefer this guy Nicholas of Myra. He was a Greek, a Bishop and a lovely saint with an absolutely charming disposition. He had a reputation for secret gift-giving, such as putting coins in the shoes of those who left them out for him, and thus became the model for Santa Claus, whose English name comes from the Dutch Sinterklaas. He is the patron saint of children as well as that of merchants, the falsely accused, repentant thieves, and sailors.
This is the time of year to have good friends around, and to be a good friend; to share your food and warmth. It is the time of year to be hospitable to strangers and travelers. It is the time of year for telling stories around the fire -- because we all need a little Christmas for lighting the darkness.
©2025 April Hoeller
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