I remember growing up, as screwed up as my family became eventually, there was one thing I value about our collective Christmas celebration. All the aunts and uncles, and cousins, and brothers and sisters, and grandparents would gather around the basement at my grandparents house. Grandpa would light the “Christmas candle”, and someone would read the story from scripture before any presents could be opened.
The candle had been purchased in Israel, from what I can remember. In a tribute to that tradition…we have a carved wooden candle-holder from Israel in our living room. I look forward to incorporating it into Addison’s future memories of the Holidays.
As a kid? Hated it. It was stupid, and boring, and the presents were all right there in front of us.
As a parent/adult? Love it. A method that helps us to remember what life is about, and show a little self-restraint/discipline. Not just this day, this paper-ripping food-shoveling fest. But this season, and this life. The waiting on….arrival of….life with….crucifixion….and resurrection…and promise of a return to completion….Christ. To view that as a gift, and not something we could ever earn.
As you enjoy this video X-mas card from the Wings’….think of a tradition your family had…not the psychotic ones, but the ones that looking back on….you see the value in. Okay, feel free to list a crazy one too…
words from wick 
Wow, I didn’t know your family, “became” screwed, up..Thats what happened?
dear anonymous: yup. Through choices some made, and because of the world we live….at fault of many, and some being at no fault at all…my family’s situation was not ideal. (didn’t mean to offend anyone by simplifying it…but it wasn’t the focus of my post)