12/19/2025
Christmas is just around the corner, and as it approaches, I find myself feeling waves of sadness, almost like I can sense that people around me are struggling. I usually navigate Christmas fairly well without succumbing to feelings of missing my dad—it’s been 18 years since he passed. However, with my son now 4 years old, the older he gets, the more I seem to miss my dad again. I remember him saying that Christmas becomes fun again when you have little ones, allowing you to relive your childhood through them. I’ve been waiting for that to be true for my son and me, but instead, I just feel tired and exhausted from all the things that need to get done. I really hoped this year would be different. Perhaps I’ve put too much pressure on the idea of creating Christmas magic.
When I think back to my favorite childhood memory, I recall being about 7 or 8 years old on Christmas Eve. Every year, my dad would take tea light candles, place them in paper sacks or milk cartons he saved up, and outline the church parking lot. While I was usually only allowed to watch, that particular year, he let me help him light all those tiny candles. After finishing, we sat on the curb with me in his lap, taking in the moment. It was the most beautiful and peaceful experience I’ve ever had. We transformed the darkness into light in that parking lot.
This set the tone for the 11 PM Christmas Eve service; as people walked into the church, the atmosphere felt noticeably different—more peaceful, filled with anticipation for what was to come. When I feel stressed or overwhelmed as an adult, I try to return to that moment in my mind. In that memory, I felt safe, loved, and a sense of peace within my spirit. It truly is my favorite childhood memory. I have no idea what I received on Christmas morning that year, but I know the best gift I got was that moment with my dad.
I share this story to remind both you and me that it’s not about the material things, the events, or the gifts. It’s about slowing down, cherishing the moments, embracing the joy, peace, and love, and sharing them with others. You never know—the little things and being present with others might just become someone's next favorite memory.
Written by: Mary - Searchlight’s Admin
